It’s the most wonderful time of the year… so let’s celebrate twice but swap the BBQ by the pool for some hot cocoa by the fireplace!
Why do we celebrate Christmas in July?
Australians have grown up watching Hollywood productions portraying a wonderful white Christmas. We celebrate in July so we can experience a Christmas in winter.
The concept started in 1980 when a group of Irish tourists visited the Blue Mountains and convinced a local hotel, Hotel Mountain Heritage, to host a “Yulefest” party, as they were feeling homesick when they saw snow. The hotel owner Gary Crockett cooked a festive feast for his guests and thus, Christmas in July was born.
Yulefest events continue to be held in the Blue Mountains today where you can cosy up next to real-flame fireplaces with a glass of mulled wine or a mug of hot chocolate. Many restaurants around Sydney like MaZi at Lantern Club have also continued this tradition in 2024, transforming their décor with Christmas magic while offering traditional festive food on their menus. This gives you a great excuse to bring all your family and friends together mid-year!
Fun ideas to celebrate Christmas in July
1. Watch Christmas movies
Snuggle up at home and enjoy watching Christmas classics such as Elf, Love Actually and How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Enjoy a hot beverage (with extra marshmallows of course!) and get into some cosy holiday-themed pajamas to complement your movie experience.
2. Add some Christmas carols to your playlist
It’s not Christmas unless Michael Bublé or Mariah Carey are in your listening queue! Jingle Bells, Silent Night, Last Christmas, Deck The Halls, Santa Claus Is Coming To Town…. just to name a few! Click here to check out Spotify’s playlist “Christmas Hits”.
3. Host a Christmas in July dinner with family and friends
The perfect excuse to gather your loved ones for a night of festive fun and laughter. Your menu should contain some traditional Christmas dishes such as turkey and ham or you could stick to Aussie BBQ favourites, just don’t forget the Christmas pudding!
Keep the décor simple. Some bon-bons on the dining table and Christmas-themed serviettes will make all the difference. Pop on your Christmas playlist and light some candles with aromas of pine or cinnamon to really enhance your guests’ experience.
Celebrate Christmas in July with us at Lantern Club
Step into Lantern Club over the next few weeks, located in the heart of Roselands to experience some Christmas magic. Let us do the cooking (and cleaning!) for you! We have some great winter warmers specials and a Christmas-themed cocktail plus at selected times you will get the chance to meet Santa and take home a photo of your dining experience with us in MaZi, Lantern Club. Click here to learn more.