Why wait until December to enjoy the magic of Christmas? A Christmas in July party brings all the festive fun of the holidays to the sunny, warm days of summer. Whether you're looking for a beachy holiday bash, a backyard winter wonderland, or a simple gathering with holiday treats, this guide will help you plan the ultimate mid-year celebration!
From decorations and food to games and entertainment, here’s everything you need to throw a memorable Christmas in July party that’s full of holiday cheer—without the winter chill!
Setting the Scene: Christmas in July Decorations
Transform your space into a summer-inspired winter wonderland with a mix of traditional Christmas décor and tropical summer vibes.
Festive Decorating Ideas:
- Mini Christmas Tree with a Beachy Twist – Decorate with seashells, tropical flowers, and mini sunglasses.
- Inflatable Palm Trees & Santa Hats – Hang Christmas lights around palm trees or outdoor spaces.
- Fake Snow Fun – Use cotton batting or spray snow to add a wintery feel.
- Pool Floats as Giant Ornaments – Red, green, and gold floaties make for festive poolside fun.
- Red & Green Everything – Cups, napkins, tablecloths—go all out with classic Christmas colors!
Christmas in July Menu: Fun & Festive Food & Drinks
No party is complete without delicious holiday-themed treats—with a summery twist!
Fun Christmas-Inspired Summer Treats:
- Frozen Hot Chocolate – Blend chocolate milk, ice, and whipped cream for a cooler take on hot cocoa.
- Christmas Fruit Skewers – Layer red and green fruits (like watermelon, strawberries, grapes, and kiwi).
- Holiday Sugar Cookies – Use Christmas cookie cutters to make classic holiday shapes.
- Christmas BBQ Feast – Fire up the grill for Christmas ham-inspired sliders, grilled turkey, and festive sides.
- Candy Cane Ice Cream Sundaes – Top vanilla ice cream with crushed candy canes and chocolate drizzle.
Festive Holiday Cocktails & Mocktails:
- "Santa’s Sangria" – A red and green fruit-filled sangria with a hint of cinnamon.
- "Tropical Eggnog" – A coconut-flavored version of the holiday classic served over ice.
- "Grinch Punch" – A kid-friendly green punch made with lime sherbet and Sprite.
Entertainment & Christmas-Themed Games
A great Christmas in July party needs fun activities to keep guests entertained. Here are some Christmas-inspired summer games that will have everyone laughing and celebrating.
Games & Activities for All Ages:
- Christmas Gift Exchange – Do a White Elephant or Secret Santa but with summer-friendly gifts (beach towels, sunscreen, sunglasses).
- Santa’s Pool Relay – Have teams race across the pool with inflatable reindeer floats or wearing Santa hats.
- Christmas Karaoke – Set up a microphone and sing holiday classics in swimsuits!
- Pin the Hat on Santa – A fun Christmas twist on “Pin the Tail on the Donkey.”
- Water Balloon “Snowball” Fight – Fill white balloons with water for a cool snowball-style battle.
DIY Craft Station for Kids:
- Decorate Mini Stockings
- Make Snow Globes with Mason Jars
- Design Your Own Christmas Ornaments
Fun Party Favors & Keepsakes
Send guests home with small, festive keepsakes to remember the fun.
Christmas in July Party Favor Ideas:
- Mini Santa Hats or Sunglasses
- Christmas-Themed Beach Towels
- DIY Holiday Cookie Kits
- Ornaments with a Summery Twist
Throwing a Christmas in July party is the perfect way to combine holiday magic with summer fun. With festive décor, delicious seasonal treats, and exciting games, your guests will feel the holiday spirit—even in the heat of summer!
So break out the Santa hats and sunscreen, turn up the Christmas music, and celebrate the best of both worlds—Christmas cheer and summer vibes!
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