Could you use a little Christmas cheer right now? Spread some holly jolly joy within your household by surprising the kiddos with some Christmas in July festivities this weekend! Sure it’s a little silly, but we could all use something fun and lighthearted to do around the house these days. So why not? Christmas in July might just be the boost our summer needs!
Before you begin your “holiday” planning, if you’re curious about the origins of the Christmas in July concept, check out this article from Southern Living that gives some history of this tradition that goes all the way back to 1933.
Ways to Celebrate Christmas in July in Austin:
— Go Ice Skating: Lace up your skates and make a reservation to twirl around the rink at Chaparral Ice Center! This indoor ice rink is open year-round for public skating. Standard Admission is $11 and skate rental is $6 for children and adults. Click here for all the details about scheduling your visit. Also, take note that Chaparral is opening a new rink in Cedar Park in early August.
— Chill Out with Some Frozen Hot Chocolate: One of our Do512 staffers shares that this H-E-B Select Creamy Creations Mexican Hot Chocolate Ice Cream is really legit. Order some up for your next curbside pickup or pop into your local store for a tasty treat. You can also check out this recipe for Polar Bear Frozen Hot Chocolate if you prefer to make your own.
— Make Your Own Snow: The infamous Elf on the Shelf offers 5 Easy Ways to Make Fake Snow. With baking soda, shaving cream, or cornstarch, you’re all set to whip up a little messy play time for your kids. (We tried the one with just baking soda and water, and it worked great.)
— Wrap Up Small Toys & Gifts: While Santa won’t be available to make deliveries this time of year, you can play elf yourself by purchasing some little stocking stuffers, puzzles, or fun games for the kids from a local toy shop such as Terra Toys or Toy Joy. Browse our list of Where to Get Toys for Curbside, Delivery, or In-Store Shopping these days.
— Decorate Ornaments: The Art Garage is selling a variety of cute Paint-Your-Own-Ornament Kits right now that are available for pick-up at their South Austin studio or for delivery.
— Order Treats: Easy Tiger is currently offering Christmas in July goodies that you can pre-order for pickup or delivery July 24-26. Choose from many delicious items such as their homemade stollen, a traditional German Christmas bread, or pastry packs, coffee, and even holiday cocktail kits. (When placing orders, be sure to select ‘Schedule for Later’ and set your pickup or delivery date to anytime between Friday July 24 and Sunday July 26.) Pecan Street Cookie Company also has beautifully decorated Texas-themed holiday cookies for sale this week, too.
— Play With Your Food: Cut your watermelon slices into the shape of a Christmas tree, let the kids use holiday cookie cutters on their breakfast pancakes, build a snowman out of marshmallows, etc. A quick glance through Pinterest will yield tons of easy suggestions.
— Enjoy Holiday Movies & Music: Get into the spirit of the winter season by re-watching some of your favorite holiday classics and singing along to your favorite carols. Just be sure you’re “singing loud for all to hear!”
— Send Warm Wishes: One of the best parts of the holidays is sending sweet cards to let loved ones know you’re thinking of them. During this stressful summer, especially, spread some cheer to those near and far. We’re sure handmade cards or letters from the kids would be sure to brighten anyone’s day.
Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas in July! If you find yourselves celebrating, please feel free to share your joyous moments on social media and tag us @Do512Family so we can see the fun you’re making!
