If you’re dreaming of a wintry Christmas this year, then Christmas in July might be just the ticket for festive fun this winter. A celebration on the rise in Australia, enjoy Yuletide festivities, pop-up bars and Christmas markets with friends and family, or simply curl up by the fire in a cosy pub with a mug of hot cocoa or mulled wine. Pop on your best Christmas jumper and enjoy an Australian Christmas in July.
Christmas in July in Sydney
Santa is pulling out all the stops this year for a magical White Christmas (in July). Rug up and head to the historic laneways of The Rocks for the annual Christmas in July Festival. Recreating the spirit of a traditional French Christmas market, enjoy four days of festive entertainment with authentic wood huts, Nutcrackers and mulled wine – and even falling snow! There are also heavenly Melted Cheese Stations and crackling fire pits to warm your mittens.
Further east, the Bondi Festival transforms Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach into a winter wonderland with their world-famous ice-skating rink, live shows and vibrant arts events.
Where to stay
Book your stay at the heritage-listed Art Deco Castlereagh Boutique Hotel in the heart of Sydney.
Christmas in July in Hahndorf
For a distinctly European experience and old-world charm, head to the small historic village of Hahndorf, 30 minutes from Adelaide in the picturesque Adelaide Hills. Established in 1839, Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest German settlement, with tree-lined streets, artisan shops and quaint heritage-listed buildings. Enjoy traditional festive German food and beer at rustic village pubs such as the German Arms and Hahndorf Inn.
Don’t miss the festive German Club Christmas Winter Market, close to the heart of Adelaide, for delicious Christmas food, wine and beer, plus stalls selling homemade gifts, products and Christmas decorations. Further up in the Hills, warm up at over 30 cellar doors in the Adelaide Hills for the Winter Reds Cellar Door Weekend and sample superb South Australian reds by the glass and feast on hearty winter fare.
Where to stay
Places to stay in Hahndorf include The Studios by Haus set in idyllic gardens and The Manna by Haus, stylish and modern accommodation in the heart of Hahndorf. Stay in Adelaide at Comfort Inn & Suites Manhattan and Quality Apartments Adelaide Central.
Get cosy in Launceston
From snow-capped peaks and crisp winter mornings to crackling fires in cosy pubs, there’s plenty to enjoy in the colder months for Christmas in July in Tasmania. Feel the warmth this winter in the charming riverside city of Launceston, Tasmania’s northern gateway. Explore grand heritage-listed buildings on a historic walking tour, and enjoy whiskey and wine by the fire at Fire and Fog, a market-style evening of winter wonder with fire pits, food, drink and live music.
Close to Launceston, on the South Esk River, visit the quaint historic village of Evandale and step back in time to 1809. One of Tasmania’s hidden gems and home to the annual National Penny Farthing Championship, wander heritage streets lined with workers’ cottages and late-Georgian villas and stop by the charming village pub, the Clarendon Arms, for a hearty pub meal by the open fire.
Where to stay
Stay at the historic Quality Hotel Colonial Launceston, built in 1876 and classified by the National Trust. Enjoy modern facilities with a heritage charm, all within walking distance of local highlights.
Ready to get festive? Christmas comes early when you stay at Choice Hotels. Find out what’s on offer by joining Choice Privileges and booking direct for the lowest price guarantee.