Christmas in Australia is a unique experience that differs from the holidays celebrated in most countries around the world. While winter brings snow, cold, and short days in Europe and North America; Australia enjoys summer. This means warm weather, long sun-filled days, and a completely different holiday atmosphere. What does an Australian Christmas look like, what traditions are associated with it, and what makes the holidays in this country so special?
Double Holidays in Australia
The most striking difference between an Australian Christmas and the holidays celebrated in the Northern Hemisphere is the season. Instead of winter temperatures, snow, and short days, December in Australia is a time of full summer. Temperatures in many regions of the country exceed 30°C, and the sun shines for most of the day. Australian Christmas decorations appear twice a year, in July and December. While Poles are preparing for Christmas, Australian families often go on vacation, relax on the beach, or spend time camping. The Christmas Eve dinner is replaced by a barbecue, and Santa arrives on a surfboard instead of a sleigh. In July, on the other hand, Christmas tree decorations Australia reappear in homes, stores and gardens. Giant Christmas baubles are often hung outside, creating a striking visual effect against the backdrop of the sunny landscape. During this time, holiday gatherings occur by the fireplace, where people wear woolen socks, and everyone at the office shows up in Christmas-themed sweaters. This dual custom is becoming increasingly popular. Australians prefer to celebrate Christmas in winter, and July is winter in Australia. Contrary to popular belief, it does snow there.
Christmas Tree Decorations in Australia
Australia is a country that places great importance on all Christmas traditions.
Residents decorate their trees and homes, buy gifts, and spend time with family and loved ones. There is a significant interest in personalized luxury Christmas decorations in Australia. The online Christmas store offers, among other things, hand-painted baubles. You can find holiday ornaments featuring Australian animals, such as the famous koala, or giant Christmas baubles with unique designs that add a touch of extravagance to the decorations. Custom Christmas stockings are hung on mantels or by beds. Why such stockings? Because personalized holiday decorations are the most common choice. The stockings usually feature a name or a message for the intended recipient.
Boxing Day — Big Sales
In Poland, the second day of Christmas is dedicated to visiting extended and close family. But what do Australians do on December 26? On Boxing Day, everyone rushes to shopping malls! It is a time for discounted prices and significant sales. In malls and shopping centers, Australian-themed holiday decorations are visible everywhere. Among the various displays, you can often spot giant Christmas baubles hanging in prominent places, adding to the festive atmosphere. There are numerous Santas, and carols and holiday hits play over the speakers. Almost every Australian Christmas store attracts crowds of customers looking for unique bargains. Sales have become a true holiday tradition.
Christmas Gifts in Australia
In Australia, gifts are exchanged on the first day of Christmas, December 25. Like in many countries, they play an important role. Under the tree, packages containing gifts for loved ones are placed, which are opened in a family setting. It is worth noting that a popular motif is Santa in shorts and a hat, suited to the summer climate. Gifts related to outdoor activities and beachgoing are common. Typical examples of gifts include:
- beach stuff (towels, surfboards, sunglasses);
- summer clothing (hats, swimsuits, flip-flops);
- outdoor games (frisbees, beach volleyball sets);
- picnic gear and barbecues.
Christmas Decorations in Homes and Yards in Australia
Lighting up properties in Australia during Christmas is one of the most recognizable and spectacular phenomena. Residents do not settle for a gentle illumination of the tree in front of their homes— instead, they often compete in creativity, striving to make their homes very visible. Inflatable figures of Santa, snowmen, as well as glowing crocodiles, reindeer, and koalas can be seen on properties. Colorful lights create an incredible spectacle. It has become a tradition to stroll through the neighborhood to admire these light decorations and to choose the most beautifully decorated house.
