Christmas in July Lunches and Dinners

WHY DOES AUSTRALIA CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN JULY?

With Australia having many citizens and visitors from British and European heritage, there is a strong attachment to the tradition of celebrating Christmas in cold weather. As such, many seek to have a Christmas in July celebration, also known as Yulefest or Yuletide.

July is generally the coldest month of winter in the southern hemisphere, so celebrations emulate the atmosphere of the northern hemisphere winter. This generally means hearty food, like roasts, and warm drinks in front of fireplaces and bonfires.

Christmas in July does not replace Christmas celebrations in December. It is enjoyed as an extra celebration rather than as an official holiday, and is not celebrated by everyone. However, its popularity is growing. Christmas in July is also acknowledged in other southern hemisphere countries like New Zealand and South Africa.

At Graduate House, Christmas is celebrated both in July and December. For July this year, you can book a group to enjoy a Christmas-themed lunch or dinner on any date (See Menu on page 32), given sufficient advance notice or come in for lunch or dinner on the 14th and/or the 28th July for Christmas fare. The Members’ Christmas Party is on the 2nd Friday of December. Members and guests are welcome to hold their private Christmas parties at Graduate House. We offer two options, The Christmas Summer BBQ menu and the Traditional Christmas menu. More details will be available in the August Newsletter.