Who says Christmas magic has to wait until December? Celebrating Christmas in July is a fantastic way to bring the holiday spirit into the summer months. With sunny days and warm weather, you can combine the joys of Christmas traditions with summertime fun to create unique and memorable experiences. Whether you’re looking to host an epic backyard bash or enjoy creative activities with your family, we’ve got you covered with festive ideas to help your Christmas in July shine.
Here’s how to make the most of the season with a summer twist on holiday fun!
1. Decorate a Summer-Themed Mini Christmas Tree
Turn up the tropical vibes by decorating a mini Christmas tree with a summer theme. Break out the beach-inspired decorations, such as mini flip-flops, seashell ornaments, and string lights shaped like palm trees or pineapples. You can even craft your own ornaments out of paper or clay for a more personal touch.
For added fun, make miniature beach balls from painted foam spheres or craft garland using colorful drink umbrellas. Set up your decorated tree as the centerpiece of your celebration!
2. Host an Outdoor Christmas Pajama Movie Night
Celebrate the coziness of Christmas in the great outdoors with an alfresco pajama movie night. Hang string lights or lanterns, lay out comfy blankets and pillows, and set up a projector to watch holiday classics under the stars. Titles like Elf, Home Alone, and The Grinch are perfect for creating a festive atmosphere.
Elevate the fun by encouraging guests to wear their favorite Christmas pajamas and offering themed snacks, such as popcorn topped with red and green sprinkles or “reindeer chow” made with pretzels, chocolate, and marshmallows.
3. Frozen Hot Cocoa Party
Nothing says Christmas quite like sipping on hot cocoa, but in July, a frosty twist is an absolute must! Blend chocolate milk with ice to create a chilled version of the classic holiday drink. Serve it in festive cups and top with whipped cream, sprinkles, and a candy cane stirrer.
Want to take it up a notch? Set up a frozen hot cocoa bar with toppings like mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, and flavored syrups. It’s the perfect way to keep guests cool and satisfied.
4. Backyard Snowball Fight (With a Twist!)
Bring the excitement of a snowball fight to the backyard with creative alternatives like white water balloons or soft, pom-pom “snowballs.” Create teams, set boundaries, and throw in some rules for friendly competition.
If you’re using water balloons, why not add some colored water for extra flair? Just make sure to clean up afterward and keep the environment in mind when choosing materials.
5. Write Letters to Santa (Early!)
Who says Santa only reads letters in December? Use Christmas in July as an opportunity to write letters to Santa as a family. Kids can get a head start on their wish lists, and adults can join in by writing holiday goals or gratitude notes.
Save these letters as keepsakes or tuck them away to send closer to the actual holiday season. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to keep the Christmas spirit alive.
6. Create a Summer Giving Box
Spread a little Christmas cheer by creating a summer giving box. Set aside a container to fill with non-perishable foods, toys, or hygiene products for donation. This is a wonderful way to teach kids the spirit of giving while enjoying the season of joy.
Encourage everyone in the family to contribute something, and once the box is full, deliver it to a local charity or community center.
7. DIY Christmas Slime or Playdough
Get creative and hands-on with some DIY holiday-themed crafts. Make Christmas slime or playdough in summer-inspired colors like turquoise and coral. Add glitter for a frosty effect or scent them with peppermint oil for a holiday aroma.
This activity is perfect for keeping kids entertained, and the final creations can be used as party favors or decorations!
8. Build a “Sandman” Instead of a Snowman
If you’re spending Christmas in July by the beach or even just in a sandbox, why not swap snow for sand? Gather friends or family to build a “Sandman” complete with a carrot nose, shell buttons, and sunglasses.
Don’t forget to take photos of your masterpiece while it lasts! You could even turn this activity into a friendly competition to see who can build the most creative Sandman.
9. Throw a Christmas in July Picnic or BBQ
Combine holiday cheer with classic summer activities by hosting a picnic or BBQ. Decorate your outdoor space with a mix of Christmas and summer styles—think red and green beach towels, holiday-themed paper plates, and tropical centerpieces.
Prepare festive foods like grilled “Christmas kebabs,” fruit platters in the shape of Christmas trees, or cookies decorated with sunny designs. Pair the meal with refreshing seasonal drinks, such as cranberry limeade or reindeer popsicles made from frozen red juice.
10. Host a Christmas Scavenger Hunt
Bring out the adventurer in your guests with a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt! Create clues that lead participants around your yard, home, or neighborhood to find hidden ornaments, miniature gifts, or candy canes.
For added excitement, offer prizes for the first team to finish or for extra creativity in solving clues.
11. Sing Christmas Karaoke by the Pool
What’s more fun than a karaoke party? One by the pool with all your favorite Christmas songs! Compile a playlist of festive hits, set up a karaoke machine or speaker, and encourage guests to join in on the singing.
For extra laughs, challenge participants to put a summery twist on traditional songs. “Jingle Bells” might become “Jingle Swells,” or “Frosty the Snowman” could reference a beach-ready Sandman.
12. Do a “12 Days of Kindness” Challenge
Spread goodwill and positivity with a “12 Days of Kindness” challenge. For 12 days leading up to your Christmas in July celebration, commit to daily acts of kindness, such as complimenting someone, leaving an uplifting note, or donating to a good cause.
Share your challenge on social media to encourage others to join in and make the celebration even more meaningful.
Let's Celebrate Christmas in July!
Christmas in July offers the perfect chance to celebrate the magic of the holidays without waiting for the snow to fall. Whether you’re gathering friends for a festive BBQ, crafting seasonal creations, or simply enjoying time with family, these ideas are sure to create warm memories full of summer cheer.
This July, don’t just dream of a white Christmas—bring the holiday spirit to life in vibrant color. Add your own twists to any of these activities and get ready for a celebration that will have you smiling all year long!
Make sure you print off our list of fun ways to celebrate Christmas in July! Click here to download our FREE printable.