How Elsternwick Village can help you prepare for Christmas in July

Christmas in July is a fun way to celebrate winter and the seasonal festivities that are best enjoyed in the cooler months, even if it’s not a real holiday.

Whether you plan to go all out with decorations, Christmas games and a roast with all the trimmings, or just get a group of friends together for a meal at a restaurant, you will find everything you need in Elsternwick Village.

Christmas in July is a popular tradition with many expats from the northern hemisphere who want a traditional roast and all the other festivities when it’s cold to replicate how they would normally spend the holiday.

However, the occasion has been welcomed by locals too, who want to bring together family and friends for a meal, games and a laugh.

Here are some ways Elsternwick Village can help you plan your Christmas in July event:

Cook up a roast

Food is at the centre of this cultural celebration and no Christmas is complete without a roast of some sort.

For something traditional, pick up a roast turkey, a honey-glazed ham or a roast beef from Trialto Meats, Peter Da Silva Poultry & Selected Meats or one of Elsternwick Village’s other fresh food stores.

If you are looking for something different, why not give fresh salmon or a saddle of venison a go? Opt for a nut roast if you have vegetarian guests.

If cooking huge meals is not your thing, keep in mind that plenty of cafes and restaurants have seasonal menus featuring roasts and other warming dishes perfect for a make-do Christmas in July event.

Whip up festive drinks and treats

Festive snacks, drinks and desserts also play a big part in yuletide celebrations.

Make up some mulled wine or creamy eggnog to warm up your guests and be sure to grab some of the key ingredients at one of Elsternwick Village’s local liquor stores.

Mince pies, gingerbread and Christmas pudding with custard or cream are popular snacks and desserts during the festive period, but be aware they may be easier to make from scratch than finding pre-made versions this far out from Christmas.

Again, if hosting a party is not your thing, then grab some friends and head down to one of Elsternwick’s local bars, where mulled wine is sure to be on winter menus.

Organise decorations and games

With food and drinks sorted, it’s time to think about decorating your event.

You might want to dust off your Christmas decorations and deck your home from floor to ceiling or take a simpler approach and set up fairy lights in your living room.

A fireplace is a nice touch, however a video of a crackling fireplace playing on your television will also help set the mood.

If you want to give homemade Christmas crackers a go, you can get your art and craft supplies from Elsternwick Village’s stationery stores.

Prepare some Christmas carols in advance to keep the festive cheer flowing, otherwise organise a Secret Santa so that your guests can swap some silly gifts.

Last but not least, remember to wear your daggiest Christmas sweater.