Christmas in July has definitely become a thing, with people flocking to cities around the country to feel the holiday cheer a few months early. While there might not be snow on the ground, everyone is tapping into the good time associated with the Christmas season.
Three cities are going all out with the holiday fun. Discover where to go, what to do, and how to celebrate Christmas in July, if you just can’t wait until December!
What is the History of Christmas in July?
The first recorded celebration of Christmas in July in the United States is believed to have taken place in 1933 at Keystone Camp in North Carolina, thanks to its co-founder, Fannie Holt. The celebration, held on July 24 and 25, included traditions such as Santa Claus and caroling, with cotton snow for an authentic feel.
Now this midsummer magic continues with celebrations across the country. Hallmark is known for its snowy film fests during this off-holiday season. Three cities are keeping Christmas in July on the map to stay.
Immersive in Santa Claus, Indiana
As the town’s name implies, this destination embodies the true spirit of Christmas. Beyond the obvious, the city is dedicated to celebrating holiday cheer throughout the year, not just in December.
July takes it up several notches when it comes to holiday magic. The Santa Claus Museum & Village is the perfect place to meet the man in the red suit himself. Santa’s Candy Castle offers frozen hot chocolate. For those who want to incorporate Fourth of July and Halloween themes into their festivities, there’s Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari theme park.
Jellystone Park Campgrounds with Yogi Bear
Santa Claus is a tradition, and Yogi Bear takes the excitement to another level at Jellystone Park Campgrounds for Christmas in July. With locations across the country, holiday lovers can bring their families to destinations like Tennessee and Mexico for a Christmas getaway in the summer.
Yogi Bear and his crew are part of the celebration, with Christmas decorations around the campgrounds. Enjoy activities like holiday crafts and golf cart decorating contests, as well as visits from Santa in his summer attire.
Lowkey Escape in New Hampshire
While glitter and Santa Claus are part of the magic, some holiday enthusiasts might prefer a more low-key Christmas in July. For those looking for quieter celebrations, the Christmas Farm Inn & Spa in New Hampshire delivers.
Located in the lovely White Mountains, visitors can anticipate themed holiday dinners, spa treatments, and stunning lights, creating a magical Christmas atmosphere. It’s a place to slow down and appreciate Christmas in July.
The Wrapup
Christmas in July is a fun way to break up the summer and appreciate the magic of a season traditionally celebrated in December. Visit exciting cities, ranging from Indiana to Tennessee to New Hampshire, to enjoy an array of themed decorations and activities. For those who can’t travel, channels like Hallmark offer holiday movies to celebrate right now.
