When I first moved to Australia from the UK almost thirty years ago, I knew Christmas would be different—but I didn’t quite anticipate how different! Gone were the frosty mornings and cosy evenings by the fire.
Instead, my first Australian Christmas was filled with sunshine, a BBQ in the backyard, and a swim at the beach. If you’re wondering what Christmas is like Down Under, let me take you through some of the highlights.
Christmas in the Sun: A World Away from Snowy Days
In the UK, Christmas is synonymous with chilly days, the hope of snow, and bundling up in thick jumpers. But in Australia, Christmas falls right in the middle of summer, meaning it’s all about sunshine, outdoor activities, and staying cool.
It can be quite a shock to the system when you’re used to watching the Queen’s Speech in front of a roaring fire and suddenly find yourself reaching for sunscreen and sunglasses instead!
In those first few years, I found it hard to reconcile the festive season with 30-degree heat. But now, I can’t imagine Christmas without a beach visit or even spending a few nights camping in Western Australia, making the most of the outdoors and the long, sunny days.
Food Traditions: From Turkey to Prawns on the Barbie
One of the biggest differences you’ll notice is the food. While the traditional UK Christmas lunch is a roast with all the trimmings—think turkey, stuffing, and gravy—Aussie Christmases are much more laid-back, often featuring fresh seafood and salads.
For a while, I clung to the tradition of cooking a full roast turkey with all the trimmings, cranking up the air conditioning to beat the summer heat.
But eventually, I succumbed to the more relaxed vibe of an Aussie Christmas—prawns on the barbie, crisp salads, and casual outdoor dining.
And when it comes to dessert, pavlova is a clear winner. It’s light, fruity, and the perfect way to finish off a sunny Christmas meal. These days, a big slice of pav topped with fresh berries is my go-to festive treat—much more fitting than a rich Christmas pudding in the sweltering heat!
Pre-Christmas Festivities: Carols by Candlelight
One uniquely Australian tradition that I’ve come to love is Carols by Candlelight. These events are held in cities and towns across the country in the weeks leading up to Christmas, where people gather outdoors to sing Christmas carols by candlelight.
The largest of these events is in Melbourne, and it’s broadcast on TV across the country. Sitting on a picnic blanket under the stars, singing along to carols while kids wave glow sticks—it’s magical, even without the snow!
How Aussies Celebrate Christmas Day
In Australia, Christmas Day often starts with presents under the tree, much like in the UK, but the day quickly moves outdoors. Family picnics and beach days are incredibly popular.
My first Christmas here, I couldn’t believe how many people I saw flocking to the beach with eskies full of drinks and snacks. And yes, Santa does make an appearance—often in board shorts, riding a surfboard or arriving on a jet ski!
Despite the heat, Christmas is still a time for family and friends to gather. I’ve spent many Christmas Days outside with a cool drink in hand, laughing with loved ones as we sit around a big table in the backyard.
There’s something lovely about how relaxed it all feels, with kids running around in swimmers and sunhats briefly swapped out for colourful paper crowns.
For many, the festivities also extend to Boxing Day, which in Australia means the Boxing Day Test Match and the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. Oh, and let’s not forget the Boxing Day Sales! Yep, shops open up and crowds head to the shops to spend all that Christmas gift money!
Recapturing the Wintery Christmas Spirit: Christmas in July
For those who miss the cosy, wintery Christmas of the Northern Hemisphere, Australia offers a unique tradition: Christmas in July.
During the cooler winter months, many Australians recreate the festive atmosphere, complete with roasts, mulled wine, and even some fake snow. It’s the perfect way to experience a “traditional” Christmas while still enjoying the summer festivities in December.
▶️ Read More: Find out how Australia and other countries around the world celebrate Christmas in July.
Christmas in Australia: A Summer Holiday Experience
Christmas in Australia coincides with the summer holidays, so it’s common for families to combine the celebrations with a trip away.
Whether it’s camping by the beach, heading to the bush, or even just spending the day outdoors, it’s a holiday filled with sunshine and adventure. Many people also head out in the evenings to admire the Christmas light displays.
Some neighbourhoods go all out, and it’s not uncommon to see entire streets lit up in twinkling lights, with festive displays that rival those in wintery countries.
Tips for Celebrating Christmas in Australia
Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make the most of Christmas in the sun:
- Stay Cool: It can get hot, so make sure you’ve got plenty of cold drinks and sunscreen on hand. If you’re hosting, think about setting up some shade for your guests.
- Embrace the Outdoors: E Whether it’s a BBQ, a beach day, or a picnic, make the most of the sunshine. You can even extend the celebration with a holiday camping trip—check out our tips for camping in Western Australia.
- Seafood and Salads: When it comes to food, think fresh. Seafood, salads, and fruit platters are staples for an Aussie Christmas, and they’re perfect for a hot summer’s day.
An Aussie Christmas … That’s a Wrap
Although it took me a while to get used to Christmas in the heat, I’ve come to love the relaxed, summery vibe of an Australian Christmas.
It’s different from the cold, wintry celebrations I grew up within the UK, but it’s just as festive, full of joy, and unique in its own way.
Whether you’re enjoying a BBQ by the beach, watching the Boxing Day cricket, or singing carols under the stars, Christmas in Australia is a celebration like no other.
If you’re planning to spend more time exploring this beautiful part of the world, don’t miss our tips for exploring Western Australia, where you’ll find incredible road trips, camping tips, and hidden gems.
What’s your favourite Christmas tradition, and how do you celebrate it in different climates? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
