Who says you can’t celebrate Christmas two times a year? In this article, we'll give you the history of Christmas in July, and, most importantly, how you can celebrate it like a Christmas champion!
History of Christmas in July
At first glance, Christmas in July might sound like a marketing gimmick or a quirky excuse to sip cocoa in flip-flops. The phrase first appeared in the 1892 French opera Werther, but believe it or not, this mid-summer celebration has surprisingly heartfelt roots. It all started back in 1933 at a girls’ camp in North Carolina, where campers decked the halls (or cabins), sang carols, and even got a visit from Santa himself, months ahead of schedule.
After its initial camp days, the idea stuck and started to grow in popularity. During World War II, it became a thoughtful way to send holiday cheer to troops overseas. By the time Hollywood released the movie Christmas in July in the 1940s, the concept had snowballed into a feel-good tradition that everyone loved.
In the Southern Hemisphere, where December falls during summer, countries like Australia and New Zealand have full-heartedly adopted Christmas in July as a chance to enjoy a traditional “white Christmas” during their winter. This seasonal contrast has helped spread the tradition, making it a global phenomenon.
Celebrating Christmas in July
Today, Christmas in July is as much a commercial and cultural moment as it is a nostalgic throwback. Major retailers, streaming platforms, and consumers alike have embraced the idea as a playful way to celebrate—and shop—midway through the year.
QVC hosts an annual “Christmas in July” event, offering exclusive deals and festive programming. Hallmark Channel airs a month-long holiday movie marathon, and many communities organize charity events, themed parties, and backyard gatherings.
The beauty of Christmas in July? There are no rules. Want to throw a full-on backyard bash with twinkle lights, stockings, and Santa in board shorts? Go for it! Prefer a low-key night with your favorite Christmas movie under the stars and a frozen hot chocolate in hand? Also, perfect and cozy.
Shopping for Christmas in July
Retailers are increasingly treating Christmas in July as a second shopping season. In 2026, several major brands and platforms are participating in big promotions that you won’t want to miss:
- Amazon will host its annual Prime Day in July, which is widely considered the centerpiece of mid-year retail sales.
- Best Buy is running its “Black Friday in July” sale, offering up to 70% off tech and electronics.
- Target will hold its Circle Week Sale, featuring deep discounts across multiple categories.
- QVC will return with its iconic “Christmas in July” programming.
- Walmart is expected to run major events like Walmart+ Week.
- Nordstrom is launching an Anniversary Sale as part of the broader shopping season.
Smaller e-commerce brands and boutique retailers are also jumping in, offering themed promotions, giveaways, and limited-time deals. If you’re looking for truly unique or premium Christmas items you won’t find on Amazon, visit our marketplace at TheChristmas.com. We’re featuring early-access holiday products from artisans, small businesses and top brands from around the country.
