The Tradition of Christmas in July

Why we celebrate the season twice a year.

For many collectors, Christmas is never confined to a single season. Long before the first snow falls or the holiday markets open, artisans across Europe are already painting ornaments, sculpting figures, and crafting the pieces that will become part of family traditions for generations to come.

That is part of the enduring charm of Christmas in July—a celebration that invites us to revisit the warmth, wonder, and anticipation of the holidays long before December arrives.

Where did Christmas in July begin?

While several stories surround its origins, the tradition is most commonly traced to a summer camp in North Carolina during the 1930s, where campers decorated a Christmas tree, exchanged gifts, and welcomed Santa Claus despite the summer heat. Over time, the idea spread through popular culture, retailers, and communities around the world, becoming a light-hearted way to enjoy the spirit of Christmas twice each year. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

In Australia and New Zealand, where December falls during the height of summer, Christmas in July also became an opportunity to experience the cosy traditions of a winter Christmas—warm meals, roaring fires, and festive gatherings that better match the imagery so often associated with the season. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

A season of collecting

At BON TON, we have always believed that Christmas is built slowly. The most treasured collections are rarely assembled in a single season. Instead, they grow year after year—one ornament discovered while travelling, one handcrafted Santa found at a favourite shop, one beautiful glass decoration carefully wrapped away until the holidays return.

Many of the artisans we work with begin creating their Christmas collections months before autumn arrives. Each handmade ornament, papier-mâché figure, and mouth-blown glass decoration represents hours of craftsmanship long before it ever reaches a Christmas tree.

Celebrating the magic all year long

Whether Christmas in July means watching a favourite holiday film on a warm evening, beginning a new ornament collection, or simply dreaming about the season ahead, it reminds us that the joy of Christmas isn't limited to a single month on the calendar.

For us, Christmas is a celebration of craftsmanship, tradition, and gathering the objects that make a home feel welcoming. Those are pleasures worth enjoying throughout the year.

Discover handcrafted ornaments, heirloom decorations, and artisan Christmas treasures in the BON TON Christmas Market .