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There are many ways to celebrate Christmas, almost as many as there are countries in the world, today we travel to the antipodes
Have you ever wondered how they celebrate Christmas in the other part of the world? How is Christmas in Australia?
As in almost all parts of the world, Australia celebrates Christmas in various ways. One of them is on the beach.
Yes, because although here we are used to the concept of snowy Christmas, the fireplace and the warmth of the home, in Australia Christmas is celebrated in the middle of summer. And how is that? Well, being in the southern hemisphere, December is a summer month.
Therefore, in this southern country, you can enjoy the Christmas in bikini and surfing in some of its wonderful beaches. In fact, Australians have known how to adapt the dates to their climate and organize Christmas activities on the beach. Thus, instead of a sleigh and reindeer, Santa Claus arrives on the mainland island on a surfboard.
Also, his classic outfit changes a bit, as the Australian Santa Claus is wearing shorts.
Summer and Christmas are supported in Australia
In line with what was expressed in the previous paragraphs, Australian beach Christmas is lived with great intensity in every corner of the country. For example, lifeguards wear Christmas hats on these dates, Christmas trees are placed on the beaches and people collaborate to decorate them. Also, snowmen are made on the beaches, using artificial snow.
Also, unlike in European countries, in Australia, Christmas is a party that is celebrated in the street. And it is not for less, since in the antipodes they are enjoyed with a pleasant 30º C. With these temperatures, Australians go out into the streets and into nature to enjoy these important dates.
Consequently, although it is also a tradition to meet with the family, generally, the most common Christmas plans, both for Australians and for tourists who visit the country at Christmas, consist of going on a picnic to a park, a swimming pool or the beach.
Does Australia have its own Christmas gastronomy?
In the typical dishes of Australian Christmas, you cannot miss turkey, ham and pork.
And, if we talk about desserts, the level of temptation soars, since it is tradition to enjoy a typical Christmas pudding in which a gold nugget is hidden (whoever finds it is blessed with a good year).
Also, it is worth highlighting the pavlova, an exquisite meringue cake, covered with whipped cream and pieces of fruit.
As you have seen, Australian Christmas is different, but just as wonderful. What do you say? Would you like to spend Christmas on the beach?
The big days of Christmas in Australia
- On December 25 it is customary to have a Christmas barbecue outdoors. Among all the places that follow this tradition, the district of St. Kilda (Melbourne) stands out, which brings together hundreds of thousands of people.
- On December 26, Boxing Day takes place, which was born as the day on which the most privileged classes of Australian society donated money or gave gifts to those most in need. In all cases (money and gifts), the donations were delivered inside a box (this is where boxing comes from). With the passage of time, the customs on this day have changed and, now, the 26th is a shopping day, thanks to the succulent sales only available for 24 hours.
- During the early morning of January 1, fireworks take over the Australian sky. In addition to those in Sydney, most cities and towns in the country offer a splendid show of lights and shapes. After the fireworks recital is over, Australians flock to private parties, street concerts, camping trips and massive celebrations in parks.