The Best Destinations In Australia To Celebrate Christmas In July

While people in the Northern Hemisphere are busy sunbathing at the beach and booking their next camping adventure, Australia is experiencing its coldest weather of the year. In the Land Down Under, winter comes in June, July, and August, and you know what that means: time for Christmas!

Officially, Aussies celebrate Christmas on December 25, just like in many other countries around the world, but some residents view July's sweater weather as the perfect opportunity for a second go-round each year. In Australia, Christmas in July — often celebrated on or around July 25 — might involve a family get-together, a festive party with friends, or a merry campfire. Locals may spend the informal holiday decorating a Christmas tree, stringing colorful lights on their homes, or preparing traditional mulled wine and plum pudding.

Whether you live in Australia or have a July trip to Oz coming up, take advantage of the season's snowy weather (that's right — snow in Australia), jolly events, and merry Yuletide spirit in one of the country's Christmassy destinations.

If you don't usually think of Australia as a snowy winter wonderland, we don't blame you. Some regions hardly get any snow, while others may see only a light dusting in the cold-weather months. If you're hoping to experience a white Christmas (in July, that is), your best bet is to spend time up in the mountains, where snowy peaks are a common sight.

Thredbo, located in Kosciuszko National Park, is a ski resort complete with a charming village, an alpine coaster, and top-notch trails. The resort is known to deck the halls and display its stunning Christmas tree during the winter season, and you may find Santa meet-and-greets and other special events in July. Several other snowy ski resorts are located in the mountainous region between Melbourne and Canberra, including Lake Mountain, Perisher Ski Resort, Mount Hotham, and Mount Buller.

Tasmania's mountains and ski resorts are also known for their wintertime snow. Consider making the trek to Ben Lomond Alpine Resort, where you can immerse yourself in the local Christmas spirit in between rides on the ski lifts. The resort holds a Christmas in July party fit for the whole family, with food, crafts, caroling, and other festivities.

If you can't make it to Australia's snow-covered mountaintops in time for Christmas in July, then look no further than the country's major cities. Even if snow isn't in the forecast, you can put on your best Christmas sweater and indulge in some festive treats at a big Christmas bash. If you plan to visit warm-weather winter vacation spot Sydney, then look for themed dinners and parties at bars and restaurants around the city (events vary each year, so research before your trip for the most up-to-date information). Just outside of Sydney, Campbelltown hosts its annual Chill Fest packed with cozy winter activities, rides, and performances. Drive a little further away from Sydney to Bathurst, where you'll also find a vibrant Winter Festival. Expect Christmas lights, ice skating, and other Yuletide staples.

The iconic views of Melbourne also get the Christmas treatment in July. Queen Victoria Market's Winter Night Market might not be your traditional Christmas fare, but you'll still find mulled wine, hot chocolate, and other wintertime favorites, along with performances and ice sculptures. The city's Grazeland food hall is another spot to check out during your trip. In June and July, the culinary destination hosts its Winter Wonderland event with snowy displays, warm-your-bones beverages, and firepits.

Finally, consider spending a few days in Canberra, home of the Christmas in July Festival. With its French flair, the event will make you feel like you're in an authentic Christmas market in Europe.