It’s Christmas (in July)
Ah, Christmas: such a magical time. The lights, the decorations, the time spent with loved ones. It seems like such a shame we only get to enjoy such a joy-filled holiday once a year. Or do we? This past weekend, we hosted our second Christmas in July pool party and I can say with confidence that for our group, Christmas now comes twice a year. It may look slightly sunnier and tackier, but it has all the fun and festivity that I love about the holidays…in July.
Let’s get this party started…at the front door. A wreath with miniature beach balls, red and green flip flops, and some festive sunglasses did the job.
The gate to the backyard got merry with a tropical themed wreath of its own.
And then there was the 16.5 foot inflatable Santa, who was a subtle touch. Go big or go home, especially for Christmas.
Where there is Santa, naturally, there are reindeer….
A talented little elf named Clint made this Jell-O shot Jenga game—because what’s a holiday soiree without red and green Jell-O shots?
Even Rosie, our flamingo pool float, was ready to mix and flamingle!
This is our swimming Santa, with his goggles and beach towel at the ready. Almost too cool for Yule.
Here’s our beverage station with Jingle Juice (spicy cranberry margaritas) or Grinch Punch (regular margaritas).
Like the banner says: Baby, It’s Warm Outside.
We asked everyone to bring their favorite holiday themed appetizers and snacks. Because of all my dietary restrictions, we got lots of veggies (bless them), and also goodies like Christmas cookies, cheese wafers, dreamy dips and decadent desserts. My friend Ryan made a charcuterie board that was an absolute work of art. After all, what’s Christmas without the food?
It should surprise no one that I put out Christmas Peeps.
Easter, Halloween, Christmas—it’s not really a holiday until the marshmallow Peeps show up.
We had to have some Chick-fil-A nuggets as well. They just make any occasion better…even Christmas!
I love that these guys really got into the spirit of the occasion. We had a cousin Eddie AND an ugly sweater, in July. My heart was full.
Speaking of holiday spirit, check out my friend Tamaryn on the far right in her Hannukah outfit that LIT up. Highlight of my day, pun intended!
Suddenly, we heard the sound of jingle bells and: Santa appeared!
Ho, ho, ho! Merry Christmas!
No naughty list folks here, Santa. That’s our story and we’re sticking to it.
The halls weren’t the only thing decked out—I love that my people embrace a theme as enthusiastically as I do.
Here we are, the founders of Christmas in July, taking a moment to congratulate ourselves. It really does come twice a year now!
A Christmas tragedy befell us: my technology failed me, and this candid picture of us prepping for our group shot is the closest thing I got to an actual group photo. Please imagine two dozen fabulous people having an absolutely joyful time, all decked out with Santa and some holiday props. I promise to do better next year. Coal in my stocking on this one!
Photography failure aside, our Christmas in July celebration was a success. We spent our afternoon sipping, snacking, splashing, laughing, listening to Christmas carols with a tropical vibe, and enjoying the best of the summer along with a Yuletide poolside party. Naturally, like any amazing Christmas, we are already counting down until the next one (and making big plans). The most wonderful time of the year, twice a year? I can get on board. Stay merry!
Holly jolly, indeed!