Buzz
Christmas isn’t just for December: That’s the spirit behind Christmas in July. However, if you think it’s a marketing gimmick cooked up by retailers or greeting card companies to encourage shopping during a summer lull, think again.
What Is Christmas in July?
As the story goes, Christmas in July originated at a girls' summer camp in 1933, when Keystone Camp in Brevard, North Carolina, decided to dedicate two days—July 24 and 25—to the holiday, complete with faux cotton snow, a beautifully decorated tree, a gift exchange, and, of course, a visit from Santa.
A few years later, the idea gained traction in pop culture when the film Christmas in July premiered in 1940. The plot centers around a man whose coworkers trick him into believing his company won a $25,000 prize, leading him to embark on a cheerful spree of generosity (including proposing to his longtime sweetheart). By the 1950s, retailers had caught on, and now Christmas in July sales are a major event.
When Does Christmas in July Take Place?
Although the inaugural Christmas in July celebration took place on July 24th and 25th at Keystone Camp, there is no set date for this mid-year festivity. In recent years, people have embraced Christmas in July all month long, enjoying everything from holiday movie marathons to irresistible sales, with Christmas cheer in full swing.
Why You Should Get Involved in This Festive Fun
Some early shoppers make the most of Christmas in July sales to get a head start on holiday gift buying. But beyond the bargains, Christmas in July offers more perks. Indulging in snowy vibes and reading The Polar Express might actually help you stay cool this summer. Seriously.
"Reading about cold can take your mind off the thermometer, evoking one's own experience of ice and snow," explains Walter A. Brown, clinical professor of psychiatry at Brown and Tufts Universities, and an expert on the placebo effect. "It’s a little like self-hypnosis."
Christmas Vacation in the Middle of Summer
If you're struggling to feel festive, head to Fresno, California, where they host a "Christmas in July" 5K run. West Jefferson, North Carolina, and Chalfont, Pennsylvania are also famous for their "Christmas in July" festivals. Meanwhile, in Texas, the Dallas Arboretum invites Santa Claus to join the summer fun.
Ways to Celebrate Christmas in July
If you're planning to gather your loved ones and celebrate Christmas on July 24 and 25, here's how to make it memorable:
Adorn your home
No need to drag out all of your holiday decorations. Simply hang some fairy lights through your trees or across your living room and backyard. If you're using a small artificial tree, give it a fun and festive summer vibe with decorations like seashells, flip-flops, colorful cocktail umbrellas, and a starfish on top.
Get inventive with your Christmas in July menu
Switch up the usual Christmas menu by experimenting with options like grilled turkey paired with relaxed summer sides such as panzanella salad instead of stuffing, and corn on the cob. Sip on frozen holiday cocktails in festive colors—like strawberry daiquiris or margaritas. For dessert, enjoy cookie ice cream sandwiches and snow cones as the perfect finishing touch.
Let the Elf on the Shelf make a summer return
Your elf can cause mischief both indoors and outdoors—whether it’s chilling by the pool or building a snow cone snowman. Plus, who wouldn’t appreciate some extra help keeping the kids in line during this busy time?
Keep it simple when choosing your Christmas in July gifts.
Christmas in July doesn't need to be over-the-top when it comes to presents. Consider giving your friends and family affordable, fun gifts like pool floats, sidewalk chalk, colorful beach towels, a new pair of sunglasses, or vibrant nail polish shades perfect for a summer pedicure.
Discover more ways to add a festive touch to your summer.
Create 'gingerbread' houses with graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate for a fun s'mores twist (and then enjoy!). Instead of sledding, set up a classic Slip-n-Slide or make your own! Treat yourself to frozen hot chocolate, play your favorite Christmas carols, and watch some of the best Christmas movies on Netflix. You'll feel the holiday cheer, no matter how warm it is outside.
