Father Christmas comes in swimming trunks

Father Christmas Comes in Swimming Trunks: An Aussie Christmas

Picture Santa. What do you see? Probably snow, reindeer, and a big man in a fur-lined suit, right? Well, chuck that image out the window if you’re thinking about Christmas in Australia! Down Under, December means scorching sun, not snowdrifts. That’s why we’ve given Father Christmas an Aussie makeover: boardies, sunnies, and maybe even an Akubra.

A Summer Christmas, Mate!

Christmas in Australia? It’s smack-bang in the middle of summer. Think long, sunny days and temperatures that make you sweat just thinking about them. Forget the winter wonderland; we’re all about beaches and barbies. It’s a complete flip from the traditional Northern Hemisphere Christmas, and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Santa’s Aussie Transformation

Let’s face it, the classic Santa look just doesn’t cut it when it’s 40 degrees Celsius. So, what do you do? You give him a fair dinkum Aussie upgrade! While the red suit and beard are still iconic, you’ll often see Santa rocking board shorts, sunnies to shield those eyes from the harsh Aussie sun, and an Akubra hat – a wide-brimmed Aussie icon. Some legends even reckon he swaps the sleigh for a surfboard or a ute pulled by kangaroos. Crikey!

Beach Celebrations: The Only Way to Do Christmas

Seriously, what’s more Aussie than spending Christmas Day at the beach? Families flock to the coast to swim, surf, play cricket, and fire up the barbie. I remember one Christmas, we even saw Santa arrive on a jet ski! Places like Bronte Beach in Sydney are famous for their “Orphan’s Christmas,” where travelers and backpackers gather to celebrate together, far from home. It’s a beautiful thing.

Carols by Candlelight: Belting Out Tunes in the Heat

Even though it’s hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement, we still love our Christmas carols. “Carols by Candlelight” is a massive tradition. People gather outdoors in the evening, candles in hand, belting out tunes for a good cause. Melbourne’s Sidney Myer Music Bowl hosts one of the biggest events, and it’s broadcast all over the country. Goosebumps, every time, even in the heat.

Christmas Cuisine: Prawns, Pavlova, and Maybe a Cold One for Santa

The Aussie Christmas feast is a ripper blend of tradition and summer vibes. Sure, some families still go for the full roast turkey or ham, but it’s just as common to see cold meats, fresh seafood (prawns are a must!), and salads galore. And for dessert? Christmas pudding, mince pies, pavlova (a meringue masterpiece), and all the summer fruits you can handle. Oh, and don’t forget to leave out a cold beer for Santa. He deserves it after all that hard work in the sun!

The First Aussie Christmas: A Far Cry From Today

Back in 1788, Christmas in Australia was a pretty different affair. Just a year after the First Fleet arrived, Reverend Johnson held services for Governor Phillip and his officers, while the convicts got their daily grub. Over time, the British settlers started adding their own Aussie twist, using native plants like ferns and Christmas bells for decorations.

Christmas in July: Because Why Not?

Here’s a fun fact: some Aussies also celebrate “Christmas in July,” or “Midwinter Christmas.” It’s basically a chance to have a winter-themed Christmas, complete with all the cozy food and decorations. A bit bonkers, maybe, but a good excuse for a party!

A Unique and Evolving Tradition: That’s the Aussie Way

Christmas in Australia is a truly unique and evolving tradition. It’s a blend of our British heritage and the laid-back, sun-soaked Aussie lifestyle. So, next time you picture Santa, remember he might just be rocking a pair of boardies and catching some waves Down Under! It’s all part of the magic of an Aussie Christmas.