While the traditional Christmas celebration in December is characterized by cold weather, festive decorations and a spirit of giving, another lesser-known but increasingly popular holiday is Christmas in July.
This mid-year celebration brings a slice of the festive spirit to the summer months.
But why does it exist, who celebrates it, and what businesses and traditions have sprung up around it?
Let’s dive into the origins and modern-day practices of Christmas in July.
Origins and popularity
The concept of Christmas in July is believed to have originated at a girls’ camp called Keystone Camp in Brevard, North Carolina.
In 1933, the camp celebrated Christmas with carols, a Christmas tree, Santa Claus, and presents.
The idea was to enjoy the festive spirit during the summer, away from the cold winter months. This initial celebration sparked a tradition that slowly gained traction.
The term “Christmas in July” was popularized by the 1940 Hollywood movie “Christmas in July,” in which the protagonist mistakenly believes he has won a substantial amount of money and proceeds to celebrate Christmas in the summer.
This film helped cement the idea of a summer celebration with a winter holiday theme.
Christmas in July is celebrated by a diverse group of people. It is particularly popular in countries in the Southern Hemisphere, such as Australia and New Zealand, where July is during the winter season.
This allows them to experience a traditional “winter Christmas” without waiting for December.
In the United States and Europe, Christmas in July is celebrated more for the novelty and fun.
Families and communities may host parties, exchange gifts, and even decorate their homes with Christmas lights and trees.
It’s an opportunity to break the monotony of the long summer months with a festive event.
Retailers and Hallmark Channel celebrate
Businesses have been quick to capitalize on the Christmas in July trend.
Retailers often hold sales and promotions to boost summer sales, offering discounts reminiscent of Black Friday deals.
This period has become an important mid-year boost for many businesses, especially in the retail and e-commerce sectors.
The Hallmark Channel, known for its beloved Christmas movies, has embraced Christmas in July with fervor.
Since 2012, the network has aired a special “Christmas in July” programming block.
This includes a lineup of classic Christmas movies, often with marathons running 24/7 for several days. These feel-good movies attract a significant viewership, providing a nostalgic escape and a reminder of the holiday spirit during the warmer months.
Fa la la la…July
While Christmas in July doesn’t have the long-standing traditions of December Christmas, several unique customs have developed.
Many people host Christmas-themed parties complete with traditional decorations, festive foods, and holiday music.
Ugly sweater parties, a popular December tradition, are humorously adapted to the summer heat with Christmas-themed shirts.
Secret Santa or White Elephant gift exchanges are common, adding to the festive spirit.
Some families prepare a traditional Christmas dinner, while others opt for a barbecue or picnic to suit the summer weather.
Festive cookies, eggnog, and other holiday treats might also make an appearance.
Similar to the holiday season in December, Christmas in July is also a time when people are encouraged to give back to the community.
Charity drives, donations and volunteer events are often organized to help those in need. Crafting Christmas decorations or making gifts during July can be a fun activity for families and children, providing a creative outlet during the summer holidays.
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