When we think of Christmas, what comes to mind are snow-covered streets, a roaring fireplace and perhaps a cup of hot chocolate. However, just like in Brazil, Australia has very hot temperatures during the end-of-year festivities, so Christmas traditions are usually different and super fun.
So if you still don’t know about Australian Christmas traditions, we’ve separated some we love.
1 – Beach Day
As we already know, Australia has some of the most stunning beaches in the world. So a day at the beach during the Christmas season is an activity that is part of Australian traditions. In addition to several groups gathering on the beach to celebrate their end-of-year celebrations and meetings, many surfers even go to the beach to surf dressed as Santa Claus. This tradition is the face of Australians, amazing, isn’t it?
2 – BBQ Celebrations
Anyone who thinks only of Brazil eats barbecue during the end-of-year festivities is wrong. In Australia, many people enjoy celebrating Christmas with an outdoor barbecue, whether in their own backyards, on the beach or in parks. So don’t be surprised to be invited to a delicious barbecue when you arrive in Australia, just don’t forget to bring a beer or some other snack!
3 – Seafood
In Brazil, we usually like to serve ham or a delicious Chester for Christmas, in Australia, most families like to serve seafood for dinner, especially the famous “king shrimp”. Generally, they make it grilled on the barbecue, being an extremely delicious dish. But of course, fish and lobster are also part of the Australian Christmas dinner.
4 – Christmas Street Parties
The heat stays well past sunset in Australia, making the weather perfect for Christmas street parties. Hundreds of Australians participate in this tradition, gathering down the road from their homes and enjoying each other’s company. This tradition, in addition to being very reminiscent of the Brazilian habit of always inviting someone to their Christmas party, is a great way for immigrants to build a new cycle of friendship, something that goes well with the Christmas atmosphere.
5 – Christmas Lights in Australia
From giant trees and colourful trinkets to delightful light displays, Christmas lights in Australia are a tradition in cities and suburbs alike. Aiming to spread the cheer and the holiday, the streets come alive with these bright lights. No matter where you are in Australia, there is likely to be a Christmas light display nearby, from select streets in the suburbs that come to life with light shows put on by your neighbors, to professional city-wide displays organized by each borough administration!
6 – Carols by Candelight
Carols by Candlelight is an annual Australian Christmas tradition that was popularized in Melbourne in 1938. The tradition involves many families gathering in parks to sing carols by candlelight, have picnics and watch live performances!
Which of these Australian Christmas traditions did you like the most?
Share this article with your friends and family who want to enjoy Christmas in Australia one day!
