Why do some celebrate Christmas Lunch in July ?
Where did Christmas in July come from? And why do some people like to celebrate Christmas twice a year, I guess the short answer is why not. I decided to do a little bit of Google research to see what I could come up with.
The Origins and Allure of Christmas in July Celebrations:
As the temperatures rise during the peak of summer, a peculiar phenomenon takes place in many parts of the world: Christmas in July celebrations. This festive tradition, though not as widely known as its December counterpart, has gained popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we will delve into the origins and allure of Christmas in July, exploring how this merry mid-year celebration came to be.
The Winter Wonderland in the Southern Hemisphere:
To understand the genesis of Christmas in July, we must first look to the Southern Hemisphere, where seasons are reversed compared to the Northern Hemisphere. In countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, December marks the beginning of summer, making the idea of a snow-covered Christmas impractical. Thus, the concept of celebrating Christmas in the middle of the year was born, allowing those in the Southern Hemisphere to experience the traditional winter wonderland associated with the holiday season.
Historical Traces:
The concept of celebrating Christmas in July is said to have originated in Europe. It is believed to have been inspired by an old French custom known as “Noël Julienne,” which translates to “Christmas in July.” This custom involved celebrating Christmas during the month of July to honor the summer visit of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of gift-giving.
In addition, there are traces of mid-year Christmas celebrations in Scandinavian countries. The Nordic region’s ancient tradition of celebrating the summer solstice, known as “Midsummer,” bears resemblance to Christmas festivities. This convergence of mid-year celebrations and the desire to experience the joyous spirit of Christmas likely contributed to the rise of Christmas in July.
Whilst some believe the tradition of celebrating Christmas in the middle of July began in Europe, as a way to celebrate Christmas in summer. in Australia the origins of this out of season Christmas festival have also been linked to a group of European tourists on holidays in Sydney’s Blue Mountains in a winter of the early 1980’s. With the fluffy white snow laden resort, reminding them of Christmas back at home. They suggested to a local venue owner to hold a Christmas Lunch which he promptly called ‘Yulefest.’ The first Yulefest was so successful, it was decided the venue would hold a Christmas Party each year in July.
Pop Culture Influence:
While the origins of Christmas in July may be rooted in historical customs, it was popularized and embraced by the media and entertainment industry in the 20th century. The concept gained significant attention through the arts, particularly in the United States.
In 1933, a Hollywood comedy film titled “Christmas in July,” directed by Preston Sturges, depicted the story of a man who mistakenly believes he has won a large cash prize and decides to celebrate Christmas in the middle of summer. This film played a pivotal role in introducing the idea of celebrating Christmas in July to a wider audience.
Commercialization and Charitable Causes:
Over time, the commercial aspect of Christmas in July celebrations emerged. Retailers and businesses saw an opportunity to boost sales during the summer slump by offering special promotions, sales, and themed events. Today, it is common to find Christmas-themed decorations, sales, and even Santa Claus appearances in various stores during July.
Furthermore, Christmas in July has also become associated with charitable initiatives. Many organizations and communities use this time to organize events and fundraisers to support those in need. These acts of goodwill help capture the true spirit of Christmas and bring joy to others during a time of the year that is traditionally devoid of holiday cheer.
Conclusion:
Christmas in July, a unique and evolving tradition, brings a touch of yuletide magic to the summer months. Originating from the need to experience a winter Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere, it has grown to captivate people worldwide through its historical roots and pop culture influences. Whether it’s the allure of a mid-year celebration, commercial incentives, or acts of kindness, the festivities of Christmas in July continue to spread joy and warmth during the summer season. So, as the temperature rises and the holiday spirit fills the air, embrace the merry charm of Christmas in July and create memories that bridge the gap between the two halves of the year.
Some believe the tradition of celebrating Christmas in the middle of July began in Europe, as a way to celebrate Christmas in summer. The origins of this out of season Christmas festival have also been linked to a group of European tourists on holidays in Sydney’s Blue Mountains in a winter of the early 1980’s. With the fluffy white snow laden resort, reminding them of Christmas back at home. They suggested to a local venue owner to hold a Christmas Lunch which he promptly called ‘Yulefest.’ The first Yulefest was so successful, it was decided the venue would hold a Christmas Party each year in July.
Christmas in July Packages 2024
Wherever it started, today the tradition is so well entrenched in Australia and in Melbourne that Brighton Savoy has joined in and now offers Christmas in July Lunch and Dinner packages. So out comes the tinsel, miniature Christmas trees from storage, and the preparations begin for plump juicy roast turkey, seasoned stuffing, and brandy custard coated plum pudding.
So why not contact our event office to arrange your community group, or family’s Christmas in July celebration.
Our Christmas Lunch or Dinner Packages are available from a minimum of 30 Adult guests.
Call us on (03) 9592 8233 or email an enquiry
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