As the winter chills set in, it’s the perfect time for South Africans to experience the joy of a winter Christmas! Whether you’re planning a family get together or a fun party with friends, here’s how you can fully embrace Christmas in July.
1. Enhance your home with festive decorations
The heart of Christmas in July is about creating an atmosphere with decorations that bring joy and warmth to your home. Picture twinkling fairy lights, colourful ornaments and cosy cushions. Set up a Christmas tree adorned with wintry decor. Remember to include blankets, plush pillows and festive table settings.
2. Host a winter themed feast
Part of celebrating Christmas in July involves indulging in a winter feast. Roasts, soups and baked treats are popular choices during this season. Consider serving meats and vegetables, honey glazed ham and mulled wine. Don’t forget to treat yourself and your guests to classic Christmas pudding or some tasty gingerbread cookies for dessert.
Many families have a Sunday ritual where kids, grandkids, parents and grandparents and even extended family meet at one person’s house and enjoy a meal together. Often there is a grownups table and a kids table and each year, the same dishes are prepared by certain family members.
In 2024, because of the popularity of a diverse range of eating regimes like veganism and keto, be sure to select a variety of dishes that do not contain animal products. This is great for our individual health and gives everyone a chance to enjoy a delightful array of new and interesting dishes.
For those not wanting to cook or do dishes at home, Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront is having a three-course buffet Sunday lunch with a twist. Mains include espetadas, roast lamb, creamy mussels and an oxtail among other dishes. Desserts include black forest cake, creme brulee, swiss rolls, lemon meringue tart and a selection of cheeses among other dishes.
To save yourself the trouble of preparing a meal and doing the dishes, look out for local specials or a three-course meal deal to celebrate Christmas in July and make sure to book beforehand.
3. Fun activities for all
Arrange fun activities suitable for all ages. You could organise a Secret Santa gift exchange, host a movie marathon or create a storytelling corner. For the kids engaging in craft activities like making paper snowflakes or decorating cookies can keep them entertained. Setting up a winter themed photo booth with props such as Christmas hats or reindeer ears can add joy and capture moments filled with laughter.
4. Get a helping hand for a sparkling clean home
For a home that sparkles during the celebration, consider getting help in the form of a SweepStar, via the SweepSouth platform.
Whether you need pre- or post-guest support, SweepStars make quick work of any home cleaning job. A tidy and organised space not only elevates your home’s ambiance but also allows you to fully enjoy the festivities without worrying about cleaning up.
SweepStars will take care of all your cleaning needs allowing you to focus on planning and enjoying the festivities.
By booking cleaning services through SweepSouth, you can delegate the cleaning responsibilities and focus on the fun parts of hosting, like decorating, cooking, and entertaining your guests. The convenience of booking a cleaning session through the user-friendly app or website means you can schedule the service at a time that suits you best, even on short notice.
5. Spread the spirit of giving
Celebrating Christmas in July also provides an opportunity to give back to the community. Consider organising a charity drive or supporting organisations in need during this Mandela month to coincide with your Christmas in July celebrations.
Encouraging your guests to bring perishable food items, warm clothing or toys for donation can add a heartfelt touch to your event.
Relate Bracelets, a 100% non-profit organisation, has formed partnerships with many noteworthy causes. Together, they create a bracelet amplifying a worthy cause, and the money raised goes directly to the cause involved. This goes to show that a small and simple gesture can truly make a large impact.
“Often, charities face challenging situations as they address critical issues. With public support, we can amplify our efforts and make a greater impact,” says Dalit Shekel, CEO of Relate Bracelets. “When individuals contribute, not only do they help those in need, but they also experience the joy and fulfilment that comes from giving. It creates a virtuous cycle of kindness and positivity,” Shekel concludes.
