Christmas in July: What It Is and How to Celebrate It This Summer

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 2025, 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.  

Christmas in July 2025 Events and Festivals 

As Christmas in July continues to grow, so do the number of in-person events. We searched the internet and put together a curated list of the some top events to explore. 

Christmas in July - West Jefferson, North Carolina

Largest and best-known “Christmas in July” street festival in the U.S. Features handmade arts and crafts, live mountain music, food, a Christmas tree baling competition, and a visit from Santa. Celebrates Ashe County’s Christmas tree industry. Open July 5th. 

Christmas in July Market - Plano, Texas

Over 100 local vendors selling holiday décor, gifts, boutique clothing, gourmet foods, and more. Supports small businesses. Open July 26th from 10am - 4:30pm. 

Christmas in July - Grayson, Georgia

Craft vendors, food, kids' activities, live music, and a festive summer twist on Christmas. Open July 26th from 4pm - 8pm. Free admission!

Christmas in July at Jenkinson's Boardwalk - Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey

Free photos with Santa, holiday games, face painting, themed boardwalk food, “Diving Santa,” and a movie on the beach. Open July 22-23 from 4pm - 9pm. 

Christmas in July 5k - Fresno, California

5K run/walk, presents from Santa, event shirt, music, awards, and a festive summer race vibe. Race takes place July 19th. 

Ocala Christmas in July Art & Craft Fair - Ocala, Florida

175+ artists and crafters, handmade gifts, festive décor, photos with Santa, raffles, and more. Open July 19-20. 

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Make sure to follow us on Instagram as we continue highlighting top Christmas in July events from around the country. We will also feature select brands and artisans from our marketplace as well as keep you updated on trending Christmas in July content.