Discover the Surprising Origins of Christmas in July and Why It’s Gaining Popularity

Every year, we hear the phrase *Christmas in July* and wonder what it’s really about. Is it just a marketing gimmick, or is there something more to this odd mid-year celebration?

Turns out, the roots of Christmas in July are actually pretty interesting. There’s a mix of history, culture, and, yeah, a bit of commercial flair in the mix.

The idea of celebrating Christmas in July is believed to have started in the early 1900s. Some folks say it began at a summer camp in Brevard, North Carolina, where campers decided to throw a Christmas party right in the middle of the sweltering summer.

They went all out—fake snow, a decorated tree, even Santa made an appearance. The idea seemed to catch on and spread to other camps and neighborhoods.

From Campgrounds to Popular Culture

By the 1940s, Christmas in July had started popping up in popular culture. In 1940, Hollywood released *Christmas in July*, a film that helped cement the idea in the public’s mind.

Directed by Preston Sturges, the movie follows a man who thinks he’s won a fortune and uses it to spread holiday cheer during the summer. It’s quirky, and somehow, it worked.

Commercialization of Christmas in July

As with most holidays, retailers eventually took notice of Christmas in July. By the 1950s, businesses saw a chance for a mid-year sales boost and started running Christmas-themed promotions in July.

This trend especially took off in the Southern Hemisphere, where July is actually winter, making the whole Christmas vibe feel more authentic.

Retailers Embrace the Holiday

Stores jumped at the chance to clear out old inventory and lure in customers during slow summer months. Christmas in July sales became a thing, with deep discounts on decorations, gifts, and other seasonal stuff.

It was kind of like a mini Black Friday, and shoppers didn’t seem to mind getting a head start on holiday shopping—or just snagging a good deal.

Christmas in July Around the World

While the tradition started in the U.S., it’s now celebrated in other countries too. In Australia, for instance, Christmas in July has become pretty popular.

Australians throw festive meals, parties, and winter-themed events, since July is their coldest month. It’s a chance to enjoy all the cozy Christmas traditions that don’t really fit their hot December.

New Zealand and South Africa have picked up the tradition as well. For them, it’s an excuse to do Christmas in the actual winter, which just feels right somehow.

Unique Celebrations and Traditions

Each place puts its own spin on Christmas in July. In Australia, ski resorts host special events—think snowmen, carol singing, and big winter feasts.

In Japan, some hotels and restaurants roll out Christmas in July menus, complete with holiday dishes and decorations. Even in the Northern Hemisphere, where it’s blazing hot, people get creative with poolside Christmas parties or themed charity events.

A Time for Family and Friends

One of the best parts of Christmas in July is just hanging out with people you care about. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a silly themed party, or a cozy dinner, it’s really about spending time together.

The vibe is more relaxed than December, with less pressure and more room for spontaneity. Honestly, that’s kind of refreshing.

Charity and Giving Back

Charity is also a big part of Christmas in July for a lot of folks. Many organizations use the holiday to run fundraisers, food drives, and other events to help those in need.

It’s a reminder to spread a little kindness all year round, not just in December. And isn’t that what the holidays are supposed to be about anyway?

How to Celebrate Christmas in July

If you’re feeling the itch for some holiday cheer, why wait for December? Christmas in July is your excuse to get festive right now. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Host a themed party: String up some Christmas lights, set up a tree—plastic or real, who cares—and invite your favorite people over. You could even toss in a gift exchange or Secret Santa if you’re feeling extra merry.
• Enjoy a festive meal: Cook up a classic Christmas dinner with all the trimmings, or just fire up the grill for a laid-back barbecue. Oh, and don’t skip out on treats like cookies, cake, or a splash of eggnog—why not?
• Get creative with crafts: Spend an afternoon making DIY ornaments, decorations, or even some quirky handmade gifts. It’s surprisingly fun, and honestly, it’s not just for kids.
• Watch holiday movies: Queue up a marathon of your favorite Christmas films. Whether it’s *Home Alone*, *Elf*, or *A Christmas Story*, there’s something about these movies that just hits differently in July.
• Give back to the community: Maybe organize a charity drive, volunteer at a shelter, or donate to a cause you care about. A little kindness goes a long way, no matter what month it is.

Maybe you’re trying to escape the summer heat or just want an excuse for a little mid-year joy. Whatever your reason, Christmas in July is a chance to bring people together and shake up the usual routine. So go ahead—dig out that Santa hat, put on some tunes, and see what kind of magic you can make in the middle of summer.