What is Christmas Like in Australia?
What is Christmas like in the Southern Hemisphere?
Australia is famously ‘the land down under,’ a continent well into the Southern Hemisphere. The country’s modern roots are derived from a mixture of European and Aboriginal Australian cultures, and many of its holidays are of European origin. Perhaps most notable among these is Christmas, one of the nation’s most beloved holidays. But Christmas in Australia doesn’t look like the stereotypical snowy winter wonderland. Instead, the holidays falls in the middle of Australia’s hot, dry summers. How does that change how Australian families celebrate?
Sand vs Snow
The biggest difference between Christmas in Australia and the Northern Hemisphere is the weather. Where millions of families spend the holidays in fluffy coats sipping warm drinks, Australians have to focus more on staying cool. To beat the heat, many families head to the beach on Christmas day. Hotspots like Bondi Beach see thousands flock to the shores in festive outfits, including themed bathing suits, Santa costumes, and more. You might even see a few fully decorated Christmas trees by the surf.
Dining Outdoors
Classic Christmas meals like roasts, ham, and turkey are all enjoyed in Australia, though they’re often served cold. But it’s just as common for families to keep the celebrations going outdoors right through mealtime. Barbecue is a Christmas staple in Australia. Especially popular are seafood platters, including lots and lots of shrimp or prawns. According to one estimate from the Australian Prawn Farmers Association, about 40 percent of Australia’s annual prawn consumption occurs over Christmas. That’s about 6 million kilograms of shellfish!
Another Christmas favorite is Pavlova, a meringue caked topped with heaps of cream and sliced fruits. Named after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, the dessert is a staple of Australia and New Zealand.
Summer Decorations
Even ignoring the seasonal differences, Australia is home to unique ecosystems. The continent’s warm weather and distinct plant-life offer colorful alternatives to Christmas staple decor like poinsettias, holly, and conifer trees. Instead, residents decorate with varieties of Christmas bush, waratah, native mistletoe, and orchids.
Carols by Candlelight
One of the most beloved Australian Christmas traditions is caroling by candle light. Every year, in the week leading up to Christmas, thousands of people take to the streets and local parks to sing both new and ancient holiday songs. These are often held alongside various charities to raise money for good causes. Larger events can even attracts pop stars and symphony orchestras.
Christmas Cricket
Just as American residents might associate Thanksgiving with football, Christmas in Australia are closely linked. Families coming together will often play cricket in their own yards and park. Then, starting on Boxing Day (December 26,) the Boxing Day Test offers several days’ worth of high-level competition.
These are just a few of the common Christmas customs practiced in Australia and around the world. What traditions set your family’s holidays apart? Be sure to share in the discussions, or write your own article!
References
“Australian Christmas Plants - Australian Plant Information.” Australian National Botanic Gardens, Australian National Botanic Gardens, anbg.gov.au/christmas/index.html. Accessed 20 Dec. 2021.
Australian Prawn Marketing. “Australian Prawns – an Aussie Christmas Tradition |.” Australian Prawn Farmers Association, Australian Prawn Farmers Association, apfa.com.au/australian-prawns-an-aussie-christmas-tradition/. Accessed 20 Dec. 2021.
Gordon, Oliver, and Judd Boaz. “Capacity Crowds Expected at Boxing Day Test, Australian Open despite Rising COVID Cases.” ABC News, 22 Dec. 2021, www.abc.net.au/news/2021-12-22/victoria-covid-crowds-allowed-boxing-day-test-australian-open/100718546.
About TOTA
TOTA.world provides cultural information and sharing across the world to help you explore your Family’s Cultural History and create deep connections with the lives and cultures of your ancestors.
