Christmas in July is a playful midsummer tradition that brings holiday cheer to the hottest days of the year. While some Americans dream of snow in summer, others swap barbecues for binge-watching Hallmark movies and hanging tinsel on palm trees. This made-up holiday has grown into a beloved cultural phenomenon, with towns from North Carolina to Michigan hosting festivals, pool parties, and even meet-and-greets with Santa in shorts.
Why Celebrate Christmas in July?
For many, it's a chance to enjoy the joy of the holiday season without the December stress and financial hangover. Content creator Tierney Robb throws a “favorite things” party in July, complete with an iced cocoa bar and gingerbread graham crackers shaped like beach houses. “You get the same joy with none of the financial hangover during the holidays,” she says.
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Professional holiday decorator Lance Devereux starts bringing out Christmas pillows and salt-and-pepper shakers in July. “It’s something I look forward to every single year,” he says. The trend has even inspired the Hallmark Channel to air its annual Christmas in July programming from June 26 to July 31, featuring classics and new movies like Christmas Under Cons.
How Americans Celebrate
Celebrations peak on July 25, but many events run all month. Here’s a snapshot:
- North Carolina: A town holds a days-long festival dating back to 1987.
- Illinois: A tiny midwestern town hosts a pool party with Santa.
- Michigan: A scenic campground offers a Santa meet-and-greet.
- New Jersey: A boardwalk features holiday movies on the beach and “elf storytime”.
Christmas in July vs. Traditional Christmas
While both share the same core spirit, the execution differs wildly. The table below highlights key contrasts:
| Aspect | Christmas in July | Traditional December Christmas |
|---|---|---|
| Weather | Hot, sunny – often beach or pool | Cold, snowy – indoors by the fire |
| Decorations | Light, playful – Santa in swim trunks | Elaborate – trees, lights, nativity |
| Food & Drink | Iced cocoa, BBQ, summer cocktails | Roast turkey, hot cocoa, eggnog |
| Activities | Pool parties, beach movies, parades | Gift exchanges, caroling, church services |
| Stress Level | Low – no gift pressure or travel rush | High – crowded stores, family obligations |
According to a 2023 survey, about 1 in 5 Americans now participates in some form of Christmas in July, and the number is growing thanks to social media and streaming specials.
How to Host Your Own Christmas in July Party
Ready to join the fun? Start small. Set up a Christmas in July playlist with holiday classics remixed into summer beats. Serve iced cocoa or a frozen eggnog slushie. Decorate with mini stockings, tinsel, and a beach-friendly Santa hat. For activities, try a white elephant gift exchange with summer-themed items like inflatable flamingos or beach towels. Or host a movie night under the stars featuring your favorite Hallmark Christmas film.
The key is to keep it light and fun. As Devereux says, “It can be the smallest thing – a pillow, a blanket, or Christmas salt and pepper shakers.”
FAQ
What is Christmas in July?
Christmas in July is a summer celebration that borrows traditions from the December holiday – like decorations, movies, and themed parties – but held during July, often around the 25th.
When did Christmas in July start?
The concept dates back to the early 20th century, but it gained widespread popularity in the 1980s with a festival in North Carolina and later through Hallmark Channel programming starting in 2010.
How can I celebrate Christmas in July on a budget?
Keep it simple: host a potluck with a holiday twist, stream free Christmas movies, or swap small homemade gifts. The focus is on fun, not spending.
Whether you're a die-hard holiday fan or just looking for an excuse to throw a midyear party, Christmas in July offers a refreshing break from the dog days of summer. Embrace the weirdness and enjoy the cheer – no snow required.
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