Who says you have to wait until December to celebrate the magic of Christmas? Christmas in July is the perfect excuse to bring out the holiday cheer in the middle of summer! It’s a fun way to enjoy festive traditions—without the winter weather.
From holiday-themed crafts and festive treats to a special visit with Santa, here are some exciting ways to celebrate Christmas in July with kids and make magical memories together.
1. Take Christmas in July Santa Photos
One of the most exciting ways to celebrate Christmas in July is by visiting Santa for a summer-themed photo session!
Why It’s So Much Fun:
- Unique summer-style Santa pictures – Think Santa in sunglasses or Hawaiian shirts!
- No holiday rush – A relaxed and stress-free photo experience.
- Get a head start on Christmas cards – Use your photos for holiday greetings.
How to Make It Special:
- Dress in fun, summery holiday outfits like matching red and green Hawaiian shirts.
- Bring holiday props like Santa hats, mini trees, or Christmas-in-July banners.
- Turn it into a mini celebration—grab ice cream or holiday-themed snacks afterward!
Pro Tip: Check for local Santa photo events or themed beach and outdoor Santa sessions in your area.
2. Throw a Christmas in July Party
Turn your home or backyard into a festive wonderland with a mid-year holiday party!
Easy Christmas in July Party Ideas:
- Holiday Luau – Decorate with tropical Christmas lights, serve pineapple drinks, and wear Santa hats with leis.
- Christmas Karaoke – Sing holiday classics while sipping frozen hot chocolate.
- "Snowball" Fight with Water Balloons – The perfect way to cool off while keeping things festive!
Decorating Tips:
- Hang string lights and red & green decorations.
- Use beachy holiday décor, like ornaments on palm trees.
- Play a Christmas movie outdoors with a projector for a magical night.
3. Bake Holiday Treats – With a Summer Twist!
No Christmas celebration is complete without yummy holiday treats! But since it’s summer, try cooler, lighter versions of traditional Christmas goodies.
Fun Christmas in July Treats:
- Peppermint Ice Cream Sundaes – Top vanilla ice cream with crushed candy canes and chocolate drizzle.
- Watermelon “Christmas Trees” – Cut watermelon slices into tree shapes and decorate with blueberries.
- Christmas Cookie Decorating Station – Use summery icing colors like bright blues, yellows, and greens.
- Frozen Hot Chocolate – Blend chocolate milk, ice, and whipped cream for a refreshing twist on a holiday favorite.
Pro Tip: Let kids help in the kitchen—they’ll love cutting out fun shapes and adding decorations to their treats!
4. Have a Mini Gift Exchange
Turn Christmas in July into a fun gift-giving experience with a small, simple gift exchange.
Fun Ways to Exchange Gifts:
- Secret Santa – Keep it budget-friendly with small surprises like books, candy, or crafts.
- DIY Gift-Making Party – Have kids make homemade gifts, like decorated mugs or handprint art.
- Kindness Coupons – Encourage kids to create “coupon books” filled with acts of kindness (like “One Free Hug” or “Helping with Chores”).
5. Have a Christmas Movie Marathon
Stay cool indoors with a Christmas movie night, featuring classic holiday films kids love!
Great Movies for Christmas in July:
- Elf – Perfect for giggles and holiday spirit.
- The Polar Express – A magical adventure that never gets old.
- The Grinch (Animated or Live-Action) – A fun story with a heartwarming message.
- Frozen – Not technically a Christmas movie, but it fits the winter theme!
Pro Tip: Make it extra cozy with blankets, popcorn, and holiday pajamas!
6. Have a Christmas Pool Party
What’s better than celebrating Christmas by the pool? Turn your backyard or community pool into a holiday paradise!
Pool Party Ideas:
- Float in Santa-Themed Pool Floats – Find reindeer or snowman inflatables.
- Dress Up Like Santa – Santa hats over swimsuits = festive and fun!
- Play Christmas Music by the Pool – Create a playlist of upbeat holiday tunes.
7. Make a DIY "Snow Day"
If your kids miss winter weather, bring the snow to them!
Ways to Have a Summer Snow Day:
- Make Fake Snow – Mix baking soda and shaving cream for a fun, sensory-friendly snow experience.
- Play Indoor "Snowball" Fight – Use white socks or soft foam balls for a friendly battle.
- Snow-Themed Crafts – Make cotton ball snowmen or paint winter scenes.
Pro Tip: Freeze small plastic toys in ice cubes for a fun “melting snow” excavation game!
Christmas in July is the perfect way to bring holiday joy to summer days! Whether you’re taking Santa photos, baking festive treats, or hosting a holiday pool party, the most important thing is spending time together and making fun family memories.
So grab your Santa hats, turn up the Christmas tunes, and enjoy a magical mid-year celebration!
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