A Brief History of Christmas in July

Are you looking forward to Christmas? We are, the change in weather especially! We have had just about enough of this summer already – thank you very much!

Christmas in July is a tradition dating back to the 19th century. Over 125 years ago a French play featured children rehearsing Christmas songs, and an elder’s admonishment about rushing through seasons like rushing through life. Despite the admonishment, the idea of a Christmas holiday in July took hold in some circles. The idea passed from family to family until WWII rolled around.

Then, in an effort to send Christmas cheer to the US troops deployed in Europe, organizers co-opted Christmas in July as a war effort in 1944, and 1945. By hosting events in July the troops were garunteed to receive their parcels before Christmas. Although we might complain that APO/FPO/DPO shipping is slow today, it was much slower during the 1940s! The Christmas drives made life a little bit brighter when the packages of holiday cheer finally arrived, just before Christmas in 1944, and again in 1945.

In the 1950s, companies adopted the idea of Christmas in July in order to clear out old stock and make room for new items, especially for children, just before school started. From the 1950s to today, Christmas in July continues as a tongue-in-cheek way to throw a little party. In Australia and other Southern Hemisphere countries, however, the Midwinter Celebration often carries Christmas-like vibes, especially for transplants and x-pats who miss the cold Christmases they experienced in the Northern Hemisphere.

This year, we are joining in the celebration with a flash sale! Join us for our Christmas in July event on July 25th. All items in the Honored Allies Store, The Every Magical Day Store, and the Pendant and Ring on Etsy Store will be 10% off! But it’s only for one day!