HOW TO EMBRACE THE MAGIC & FUN OF CHRISTMAS IN JULY

In many parts of the world, July is a month synonymous with warmth, sunshine, and the peak of summer. However, in the southern hemisphere, July marks the middle of winter. To combat the winter blues and add a touch of fun and festivity to the colder months, many people in Australia and other countries celebrate "Christmas in July," a whimsical and enjoyable way to embrace the colder months.

History of Winter in July

The origins of Christmas in July can be traced back to the 1980s in Australia. Legend has it that the concept originated with a group of Irish tourists visiting the Blue Mountains region of New South Wales. While witnessing a rare snowfall in the area, they were nostalgic of the festive Christmases back home. They convinced their hotel owner to host a "Yulefest" event, celebrating Christmas in July and the idea quickly gained popularity and have become a beloved tradition. 

Why Celebrate Christmas in July?

Australia's British and European heritage contributes to a strong attachment to the tradition of celebrating Christmas in cold weather. Here in the southern hemisphere Christmas falls in the height of summer, which can be hot and humid. As a result, Australians often celebrate by enjoying a beer on the beach in their swimmers. To experience a more traditional winter atmosphere, Australians embrace the coldest winter month, July to emulate a northern hemisphere winter. This includes indulging in hearty foods like roasts and enjoying warm drinks in front of fireplaces or bonfires.

Tips For Your Very Own Christmas In July party:

1. Christmas Feast: Serve up a traditional Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, including roast turkey, ham, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
2. Lawn games: From croquet to three legged races, these activities can add a playful touch to your Christmas in July gathering.
3. Winter Cocktails: Warm the party up with warming cocktails, such as mulled wine, hot toddies, or spiked eggnog.
4. Secret Santa: Organise a Secret Santa where guests bring 1 gift that anyone could enjoy. Set a price of $20, then mix them up and randomly gift them to guests.  
5. Outdoor Fire Pit: If weather permits, gather around an outdoor fire pit for warmth and toasting marshmallows for s'mores.
6. Treasure Hunt: Create a treasure hunt for your guests that will ignite laughter and teamwork as guests unravel clues strategically placed around the party venue, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled experience.
7. Holiday Music Playlist: Create a playlist of festive tunes to ignite the Christmas spirit. 
8. Deck the Halls with Festive Charm: Transform your space with snowflake decorations, fairy lights, and cozy blankets.
9. Fancy Dress: Encourage guests to dress in their best winter-themed outfits, i.e. ugly sweaters, fur, ski lodge attire or Narnia inspired.   
10. Christmas Movie Marathon: Set up a movie zone and screen holiday classics like "Home Alone," "Love Actually," and "How the Grinch Stole Christmas”.

Celebrating with Salad Servers Direct

At Salad Servers Direct, we understand the importance of coming together with loved ones. Our range of fresh healthy and delicious meals is the perfect addition to any Winter in July gathering. To take the pressure of your traditional Christmas dinner order our Roast Potato and Roast Butternut Pumpkin with Rosemary and Garlic. Whether you're looking for a classic Caesar Salad or something a bit more unique like our Herby Quinoa & Broccoli With Tahini Dressing Salad, we have options to suit every taste. 

The ease and cost-effectiveness of ordering your Christmas in July food through Salad Servers Direct means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities with your loved ones. So, grab your favourite winter woollies, light up the fire and let us bring the festive flavours to your table so you can enjoy the magic of Winter in July!