Ah, Christmas. A time of good cheer, delicious treats, and…July???? Yes friends! Christmas in July is indeed a thing. Now perhaps I’ve been living under a seasonal rock or perhaps this unexpected 2020 has us all recalling happier times but I had no idea that Christmas in July could be so fun.
So when you think Christmas, what comes to mind? Is it festive sweaters, holiday markets, peppermint chocolate combinations? Perhaps it’s other fun ideas. In any case, it’s all about some form of connection and joy. Obviously, a public health pandemic doesn’t leave much joy in its wake but seeking and creating joy is one narrative that we can create!
Enjoying Christmas vibes in the summer!
Now, there are a few differences between celebrating holiday joy in December versus July. The number one difference—July is HOT! The DC area is currently under a record run of consecutive 90 degree and above days. I don’t know about you but I want no parts of a hot beverage (except at night). So what to do when you still want to get into these festive vibes in the summer? No worries, I got you. Read on for my three easy (and cooling) ways to enjoy Christmas in July!
Christmas in July Tip #1: Hot Chocolate Gets a Makeover
Okay, as you read above, I am not looking for heated beverages. Not happening! But what is happening is all things iced. So how about a Frozen Hot Chocolate? All the feels! There are many recipes out there but clearly I am looking for the simplest and most accessible version, which I found on Food.com. Here’s how it turned out:
Typically, you will see lots of garnish (whipped cream, etc.) but since I am on a dairy-free diet, I made it my own. First, I used oat milk and ditched whipped cream and toppings. Your girl is still on a weight loss journey, so the smoothie version is perfect. Bonus: The taste is familiar hot chocolate, so no worries about any cooking disasters!
Christmas in July Tip #2: Cookies get Creative
Cookies, cookies, cookies! Who doesn’t enjoy one (or five!) When it’s summer though, many of us swap delicious seasonal fruit for processed sugar. I know I have been! So, if you’re making cookies, you don’t have to go all out. Baking a nice sugar cookie and adding a few decorations like sprinkles or maybe one or two colors can get you into the spirit while reducing the mess (and calories). You might even switch it up and instead of a sugar cookie, you might make your favorite cookie (coconut anyone?) or simply buy a cookie and throw a few colorful decorations and call it a day. The world of cookie possibilities is yours!
Christmas in July Tip #3: Movies are for Hallmark
Hallmark Channel. You’re either all in or not a fan. I get it. I used to be the latter and avoid what I deemed sappy rom-coms. But somewhere between growing up and the world going mad, I love the consistency of storyline and outcome that Hallmark movies provide. When it comes to holiday movies beyond October to December, Hallmark has us covered! As of this blog post, they have an entire lineup of Christmas in July movies. How timely! I’ve already watched several and my favorites are A Royal Christmas starring Hallmark fav Lacey Chabert and The Christmas Plaza starring the extremely attractive Ryan Paevey (major swoon–I am a sucker for beautiful eyes).
It’s all what you make it
Whew! Start celebrating while staying safe at home. Christmas in July is all about what you make it, so feel free to get creative and share the love! If you’re looking for other tips to easily and quickly lift your spirits, check out these five ideas!
Thanks for reading! How are you celebrating Christmas in July (or bringing good cheer?) Let me know in the comments and please share via social media!
