Embracing the Christmas Spirit in July

Why wait for December? Discover the magic of mid-summer cheer.

When the summer heat is at its peak and the days are long, a peculiar celebration comes around that brings a bit of mid-winter magic to the sweltering months. Christmas in July is a whimsical holiday enjoyed by many, offering a delightful and refreshing break from the usual summer festivities.

But where did this concept come from? Why do people celebrate it? Let's dive into the history and fun traditions of this sunny holiday!

The Origins of Christmas in July

The origins are somewhat murky, but a few key moments stand out:

1933, Keystone Camp: The first known celebration was held at a girls' camp in Brevard, North Carolina. It featured a tree, gifts, and even a visit from Santa Claus to bring holiday spirit to campers.
European Traditions: In some cultures, the idea of a mid-year Christmas was already present, celebrating a "second Christmas" during different seasons.
Hollywood Influence: The term was popularized by the 1940 movie "Christmas in July," a comedy where a man goes on a spending spree after mistakenly thinking he won a fortune.

Why Do People Celebrate?

Breaking the Monotony: It’s a fun excuse to break up the long, hot summer with festive joy, decorations, and food without waiting for December.

Southern Hemisphere: For countries like Australia and New Zealand, July is the middle of winter! Celebrating now allows them to experience the "traditional" winter Christmas with cozy fires and hot cocoa.

Retail Fun: It's also a great time to snag deals, as many retailers offer mid-year sales to get you ready for the actual holiday season.