In Australia, you not only get the chance to enjoy its spectacular and beautiful beaches, see architectural wonders, explore its stunning deserts, visit its majestic national parks, discover a variety of unique animal species and many other attractions. It also offers numerous opportunities to participate in the wonderful festivities celebrated throughout its territory.
A Christmas in Summer
Australia is located in the southern hemisphere and therefore, Christmas is celebrated in summer when it’s really hot. The sandy beaches, the pool and blue sky characterize the holiday season. Christmas in Australia is a religious and family celebration. Being a country of immigrants, Australia has not defined traditions and there is a lot of variations in the Christmas celebrations depending on the immigrant group.
Preparations for the Festival
Australians start preparations a few days earlier to Christmas and get ready to receive it with noise and joy. During the festival, Australian cities are decorated with beautiful Christmas decorations, the houses are adorned with ferns, palm leaves and native flowers. On Christmas Eve in Melbourne, performing the Carols by Candlelight is a tradition where a crowd of locals and visitors gather to sing Christmas songs by candlelight. In Sydney, people enjoy their dinner outdoors on beaches. The Bondi Beach is one of the most famous.
Dinner on the Christmas Eve
A traditional Dinner on Christmas includes turkey, ham, pork and seafood. A Christmas plum pudding is also added for dessert. At the time of gold rush in Australia, Christmas puddings often contained a gold nugget. Christmas cake and ice cream with dry fruits and chocolate chips are also served. Some Australians and most of the tourists often enjoy their Christmas dinner at local beaches. The restaurants and hotels also organize special dinners and parties to celebrate Christmas.
Picnic on a Beach
For the world, Christmas is about snow on the outside and a cozy fireplace inside but in Australia it’s about barbecue in the garden and picnic on the beach. Even it’s hot outside, but the heat doesn’t overcome the spirit of people. Families gather to visit a church and they have a lunch together. After the lunch, they play cricket and then go to a beach. On many beaches, the Santa Claus arrives on a surfing board or a boat.
Without any doubt, Christmas is one of the most popular festivals in Australia which is full of colors, peace and joy, and accompanied by wonderful Australian summer.
