AUSSIE STYLE CHRISTMAS
Aussie Style Christmas…
Australian Christmas is normally a casual affair with loved ones. It may be a BBQ by the beach or a picnic. Therefore, most Aussies swap the traditional roast turkey for a Christmas ham. Preference is for cold ham and fresh seafood. Particularly prawns take pride of place on many Christmas banquets. While we are aware of all the classic White Christmas traditions, it is simply impossible to replicate in Australia. Instead, we have hot and balmy Christmas breaks. So, lacking white snow, and hot chocolates by the fireplace, some of the most popular Australian Christmas traditions are surprisingly spectacular.
However, as for Australian Christmas traditions, most celebrations are the same as in the Northern Hemisphere. Many houses are lit up with Christmas lights and decorate a tree. Traditionally people put treats out on Christmas Eve for the Santa Claus.
Key difference
Weather is perhaps the key difference. It is a stunning summer in the land down under. While it is not the official tradition, people naturally head to the beach. So, if you are on a beach on Christmas day, you’ll probably catch an early-morning surfer in a Santa hat. Thus far, it is more likely to see a pair of board shorts-wearing Santa on a surfboard. Beach parties are often sipping on a cold beer and ripping into prawns. So, Christmas lunch is normally outdoors.
While American and British people feast on roast turkey, baked potato, and hot chocolate, Aussies normally pack their Eskys for a picnic. Otherwise, they may be setting up folding tables to eat outside. Therefore, most families in Australia do a ‘prawn run’ in the morning. This is when people get up super early to head to the fish market. The freshest and largest prawns are for Christmas Day.
Street parties and BBQ
Street parties are common in Australia. It is known as block parties too. Due to Australian cities experiencing a dense population, these parties are surging in popularity. They are so popular that it often starts well before Christmas Day. Sometimes, impromptu street parties happen in the evening on Christmas Day. It may be perhaps because most people visit relatives on Christmas Day. So, the streets are full of families and kids. The quiet streets on Christmas Day often become a cricket pitch. Of course, the wheelie bin makes excellent stumps.
BBQ is a common occurrence in Australia. For Aussies, it is more than a casual get-together. It is a time-honoured tradition. It may be part of the street party or family get-togethers. People normally gather at friends’ houses too. Thus far, firing up the barbie is extending into Boxing Day, New Year, and Australia Day events.
Hilarious moments
Christmas street parties bring the neighbourhood together. There is nothing like it. While it may sound complex to organise, it is simple and easy. A few friendly neighbours can make it fun and hilarious. These are great ways to share a laugh and connect with families. There are many super easy and momentous Christmas games. Perhaps set up wheelie bins and enjoy Christmas cricket in the street. You may band together to make it a front-yard affair. In the spirit of keeping things simple, you may choose water bomb, treasure hunt, Christmas planta, or Christmas carols karaoke. Santa sack race, Christmas light disco, and bobbing for apples are other hilarious ideas.
