person serving a food on christmas dinner
Dinner Party Themes

Christmas in July: Tips For Hosting a Festive Summer Bash

The secret to hosting an incredible Christmas in July party is going all out.

Walking up the steps to my sister’s home last July, we could hear her giggling from inside.

This is always a good sign for the night to come

The theme had been kept a surprise, so we weren’t sure what to expect. When we stepped in, we were greeted by a “Merry Christmas”, immediately followed by the sounds of Michael Bublé’s Christmas album playing in the background. It smelled amazing, looked incredible and completely surprised us.

A Christmas Dinner Party will stir up emotions, nostalgia and good cheer any time of the year.

Christmas In July Decorations: The More The Merrier

If you have the time, ability and willpower, you should decorate your home the same way you do for the real deal. Get the tree out, ornaments up and festive mugs filled with hot chocolate. The more decorations and commitment, the bigger the impact.

christmas decors in gray wooden fireplace mantel
Photo by Jamie Lee on Pexels.com

My sister and her partner had not yet celebrated a Christmas in their new home, so they borrowed all of the Christmas decorations from us (without us knowing). They had the tree up and lit, stockings hung, and garland across the bannister.

You can definitely bring in a fun summer element. Swap the sweaters for ugly Christmas tank tops, serve frozen hot chocolates and decorate a palm tree. You are going to be set up for a good time either way! Personally, I really enjoyed the complete Christmas wonderland they created.

The Menu: Turkey Time!

The most impressive thing about this entire night was that it was a weeknight. Yes, on a random Wednesday, they cooked a full turkey dinner. We’re talking stuffing, potatoes, turnip, salad and more.

person serving a food on christmas dinner
Photo by Nicole Michalou on Pexels.com

They even had a cranberry cocktail, and freshly baked cookies for dessert.

If you are able, make your Christmas classics. You can also supply the turkey and have your guests bring their favourite sides.

Personal Touches: Gifts Galore!

We had been instructed to dress in green for the night (which did not clue us in somehow). Under the tree, we each had a perfectly wrapped gift addressed to us, even our dog.

four boxes near lighted string lights
Photo by Element5 Digital on Pexels.com

They had a Santa hat for each of us. Throughout the night, we shared our favourite holiday traditions, favourite Christmas movies and best gifts we had ever received.

Conclusion: Was It Worth It?

A Christmas in July party is an excellent way to stir up a little good cheer, in an already wonderful time of the year!

Gift for Your Host:

A homemade simmer pot recipe would make an excellent gift for a Christmas in July party! You can go the Christmas route, or lean into more summery scents. Check out different seasonal recipes here.

If you are looking for more dinner party themes, check out some of our favourites!