The Australian Christmas spirit is truly remarkable! It's incredible how the anticipation and excitement for the holiday season can captivate our hearts, even when it's not yet close to Christmas.

And what a surprise it is to witness the festive spirit already shining bright at BIG W long before the jingle bells start ringing!

That’s right; several BIG W patrons encountered the surreal sight of Christmas merchandise hitting the shelves.

In countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where July is in the midst of winter, Christmas in July is a way to experience holiday cheer during the colder months. Source: Facebook

Social media was soon abuzz with wide-eyed shock and disbelief as pictures of holiday-themed clothing discovered on the racks in June spread.

Think Santa Claus faces, spirited reindeer, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees, all in winter!

'WHHAATTTT???' was the reaction of one bewildered shopper, posting a photo of the festive apparel on the BIG W Mums Australia Facebook group.

Many others expressed their astonishment, completely taken aback by the sight of joyous holiday clothing occupying the area typically dedicated to winter merchandise.

'Oh, you're joking!' commented an enthusiast.

'Bit early, isn’t it? It’s only June', said another.

'It’s a bit like spotting a kangaroo on Bondi beach!' shared a seasoned bargain hunter, finding amusement in this early sighting.

The history of 'Christmas in July' sparks intrigues for many. Originating in the Northern Hemisphere, where Christmas is traditionally celebrated in winter, the concept gradually gained popularity in the Southern Hemisphere, where July coincides with the peak of winter.

This alternative celebration allowed individuals in the Southern Hemisphere to experience a semblance of a traditional wintry Christmas.

It serves as an intriguing compromise, wouldn't you agree?

Many retailers and businesses take advantage of the Christmas in July concept to offer sales, discounts, and promotions. Source: BIG W

Diving back into the scene at BIG W, we found their festive range covers unisex Christmas-themed sweaters and hoodies.

And guess what? They come in all shapes and sizes for the whole family. Surprisingly pocket-friendly, too, ranging between $15 and $29.

However, early appearing Christmas gear split opinions. Some shoppers were visibly stunned, claiming it was 'too soon'.

Yet, for others, the idea clicked! They accepted the out-of-season jigsaw, emphasising the growing popularity of 'Christmas in July'.

'Don’t be alarmed. Many people celebrate Christmas in July.' one aware shopper pointed out, while another confessed she'd always wanted a Christmas sweater, but December's heat deterred her.

Despite varying views, the excitement is palpable, with people already warmed up to the idea of 'Christmas in July' events. The unfolding scene at BIG W propelled many patrons into sharing their planned Christmas-themed activities.

'Yay!!!! I’m totes (totally) down for Christmas in July!! I’m down for Christmas year-round, actually.' another thrilled shopper added.

Responding to the increasing curiosity, BIG W confirmed their new stock was indeed part of their 'Christmas in July' range, and some sizes are already seeming to fly off the shelves!

'Our Christmas in July range allows customers to celebrate Christmas in peak winter, similar to a customary Christmas celebration in the Northern Hemisphere.' a BIG W spokesperson explained.

Interestingly, early Christmas items aren't the only surprise 'guests' on the shelves. Shoppers also discovered hot cross buns at Coles and Woolworths way beyond Easter.

'Meh, Christmas in July.... explain how I bought hot cross buns today?' a shopper wrote.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W shoppers were left in disbelief after discovering Christmas stock being loaded onto shelves in June.
  
• The confusion was shared on BIG W Mums Australia Facebook page, with many expressing that it was 'too soon' for Christmas-themed merchandise.
  
• Many shoppers attributed the premature Christmas stock to the increasing popularity of Christmas in July celebrations.
  
• BIG W stated that the Christmas in July range allows customers to celebrate Christmas in the peak winter period to mimic a traditional Christmas in the northern hemisphere.

It's clear that the holiday spirit knows no bounds or restrictions. So, embrace the joy, and who knows, you might find yourself celebrating Christmas in July with a cosy sweater and a cup of hot chocolate.

While on the topic, would you mind sharing some of your favourite Christmas tracks or films you enjoy during your 'Christmas in July' observance?

 

[darrellh]

Doubt I will be buying Christmas sweaters but as a family we have always celebrated Christmas in July. The two grandchildren love it and when they were old enough chose a small tree to decorate. We do christmas stocking pressies and even though they are just little things they get a lot of joy out of it as do the adults. A lovely family day.

 

[Suzanne rose]

Another sales Gimmick.
Another thing trying to put pressure on families.

Why not just have a Family Day , that's something I have suggested recently to my family , to have a family day one in winter and one in Summer .

Isn't Xmas supposed to be celebrating the birth of Jesus ?

 

[Stevo114]

It isn't anything compulsory and you are not obliged to buy pressies.

We just do a turkey roast dinner, put up a small tree, have some mulled wine and play Christmas songs. Nice and simple. No commercialism, no religion, no endless parties. Just a fun family day.

 

[Glo72]

Great idea. I love the winter clothes for Christmas and living in Australia we sit in front of fans at Christmas. I have two year old twin great grandsons. I shall have to go shopping.

 

[Andrew]

Probably for those celebrating Christmas in July. Then again some people think it's Christmas every day.

 

[maxesmum]

I’m happy to be Scrooge! Bah! Humbug

 

[Gaena]

Coming from a picture postcard worthy village with Duckpond and thatched roofed houses in the North of England where a White Christmas was virtually guaranteed, I have always found Christmas in Australia really strange, the traditional turkey dinner is just not possible in a day with 42 degree heat, Christmas trees look out of place, everything is wilting in the heat and eveyone is just so hot and bothered. My first Christmas here will forever live in my memory, The NON air conditioned Nissan hut Dining room in the migrant hostel complete with the attempted Christmas celebrations and the huge spider crawling down the wall towards my Dad who was dressed in his best 3 piece suit in honour of the day. the pretend cotton wool snow on the Christmas tree doing absolutely nothing to cool us down as the tree leaned towards the diners. We had only been here a couple of weeks and I will never forget that day, as I watched my mother fainting in the heat, not all childhood memories of Christmas in Australia are good ones.

 

[Colette 3799]

We used to celebrate Christmas in July at work. It was fun, finding local restaurants that went all out with the Christmas food and decorations. We would have a Kris Kringle gift to exchange over lunch.
Although I won’t be buying the Christmas items your article mentions, I have to share that I have already started to collect items for my grandkids’s Christmas Eve boxes. Something I put together for them every year. I think I get more out of the Christmas Eve boxes than they do lol.

 

[KSS]

Another sales Gimmick.
Another thing trying to put pressure on families.

Why not just have a Family Day , that's something I have suggested recently to my family , to have a family day one in winter and one in Summer .

Isn't Xmas supposed to be celebrating the birth of Jesus ?

Fine for those with family, but what about those without? Christmas is for everyone not just families.

 

[Da Freddo]

Coming from a picture postcard worthy village with Duckpond and thatched roofed houses in the North of England where a White Christmas was virtually guaranteed, I have always found Christmas in Australia really strange, the traditional turkey dinner is just not possible in a day with 42 degree heat, Christmas trees look out of place, everything is wilting in the heat and eveyone is just so hot and bothered. My first Christmas here will forever live in my memory, The NON air conditioned Nissan hut Dining room in the migrant hostel complete with the attempted Christmas celebrations and the huge spider crawling down the wall towards my Dad who was dressed in his best 3 piece suit in honour of the day. the pretend cotton wool snow on the Christmas tree doing absolutely nothing to cool us down as the tree leaned towards the diners. We had only been here a couple of weeks and I will never forget that day, as I watched my mother fainting in the heat, not all childhood memories of Christmas in Australia are good ones.

Sounds like PENNINGTON HOSTEL South Aust.
Great welcome to Australia, my old man wanted the next plane out back to Blighty.
Glad mum stuck to her guns!

 

[Macarj]

Another sales Gimmick.
Another thing trying to put pressure on families.

Why not just have a Family Day , that's something I have suggested recently to my family , to have a family day one in winter and one in Summer .

Isn't Xmas supposed to be celebrating the birth of Jesus ?

What pressure if you don't want it don't buy it

 

[Ezzy]

Our social club enjoyed a Christmas in July today at a beautifully adorned function centre. There is too much happening closer to Christmas to enjoy this as we did today.

Movies? I always enjoy Holiday Inn or watching Bing Crosby singing White Christmas.

 

[Suzanne rose]

Fine for those with family, but what about those without? Christmas is for everyone not just families.

Did I say it was just for families?

 

[Hrynpa]

The Australian Christmas spirit is truly remarkable! It's incredible how the anticipation and excitement for the holiday season can captivate our hearts, even when it's not yet close to Christmas.

And what a surprise it is to witness the festive spirit already shining bright at BIG W long before the jingle bells start ringing!

That’s right; several BIG W patrons encountered the surreal sight of Christmas merchandise hitting the shelves.

View attachment 23929

In countries like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, where July is in the midst of winter, Christmas in July is a way to experience holiday cheer during the colder months. Source: Facebook

Social media was soon abuzz with wide-eyed shock and disbelief as pictures of holiday-themed clothing discovered on the racks in June spread.

Think Santa Claus faces, spirited reindeer, and beautifully decorated Christmas trees, all in winter!

'WHHAATTTT???' was the reaction of one bewildered shopper, posting a photo of the festive apparel on the BIG W Mums Australia Facebook group.

Many others expressed their astonishment, completely taken aback by the sight of joyous holiday clothing occupying the area typically dedicated to winter merchandise.

'Oh, you're joking!' commented an enthusiast.

'Bit early, isn’t it? It’s only June', said another.

'It’s a bit like spotting a kangaroo on Bondi beach!' shared a seasoned bargain hunter, finding amusement in this early sighting.

The history of 'Christmas in July' sparks intrigues for many. Originating in the Northern Hemisphere, where Christmas is traditionally celebrated in winter, the concept gradually gained popularity in the Southern Hemisphere, where July coincides with the peak of winter.

This alternative celebration allowed individuals in the Southern Hemisphere to experience a semblance of a traditional wintry Christmas.

It serves as an intriguing compromise, wouldn't you agree?

View attachment 23930

Many retailers and businesses take advantage of the Christmas in July concept to offer sales, discounts, and promotions. Source: BIG W

Diving back into the scene at BIG W, we found their festive range covers unisex Christmas-themed sweaters and hoodies.

And guess what? They come in all shapes and sizes for the whole family. Surprisingly pocket-friendly, too, ranging between $15 and $29.

However, early appearing Christmas gear split opinions. Some shoppers were visibly stunned, claiming it was 'too soon'.

Yet, for others, the idea clicked! They accepted the out-of-season jigsaw, emphasising the growing popularity of 'Christmas in July'.

'Don’t be alarmed. Many people celebrate Christmas in July.' one aware shopper pointed out, while another confessed she'd always wanted a Christmas sweater, but December's heat deterred her.

Despite varying views, the excitement is palpable, with people already warmed up to the idea of 'Christmas in July' events. The unfolding scene at BIG W propelled many patrons into sharing their planned Christmas-themed activities.

'Yay!!!! I’m totes (totally) down for Christmas in July!! I’m down for Christmas year-round, actually.' another thrilled shopper added.

Responding to the increasing curiosity, BIG W confirmed their new stock was indeed part of their 'Christmas in July' range, and some sizes are already seeming to fly off the shelves!

'Our Christmas in July range allows customers to celebrate Christmas in peak winter, similar to a customary Christmas celebration in the Northern Hemisphere.' a BIG W spokesperson explained.

Interestingly, early Christmas items aren't the only surprise 'guests' on the shelves. Shoppers also discovered hot cross buns at Coles and Woolworths way beyond Easter.

'Meh, Christmas in July.... explain how I bought hot cross buns today?' a shopper wrote.

Key Takeaways

• BIG W shoppers were left in disbelief after discovering Christmas stock being loaded onto shelves in June.
• The confusion was shared on BIG W Mums Australia Facebook page, with many expressing that it was 'too soon' for Christmas-themed merchandise.
• Many shoppers attributed the premature Christmas stock to the increasing popularity of Christmas in July celebrations.
• BIG W stated that the Christmas in July range allows customers to celebrate Christmas in the peak winter period to mimic a traditional Christmas in the northern hemisphere.

It's clear that the holiday spirit knows no bounds or restrictions. So, embrace the joy, and who knows, you might find yourself celebrating Christmas in July with a cosy sweater and a cup of hot chocolate.

While on the topic, would you mind sharing some of your favourite Christmas tracks or films you enjoy during your 'Christmas in July' observance?

I am annoyed at the person that brought this to your attention as I do not think they have ever heard of Christmas in July which these items are being advertised as in Canberra. In fact I was looking at the red one for an ugly Christmas jumper for my wife for a Christmas in July party we are going to with my Torana club on the 15th.

Some people just need to take notice of the advertising and realise that these are only out for people to have a joke with.

Wake up people.

 

[Ezzy]

Did I say it was just for families?

I don't believe so.

 

[Suzanne rose]

I don't believe so.

How are you Ezzy I hope you are well and keeping warm. It's cold in sydney

 

[Ezzy]

How are you Ezzy I hope you are well and keeping warm. It's cold in sydney

Thankyou for asking Suzanne rose. Doing my best to stay well, still recouping from my op. We are having cold nights with mild day temps here.

How are you keeping? Managing to stay as well as possible l hope.

 

[Gaena]

Sounds like PENNINGTON HOSTEL South Aust.
Great welcome to Australia, my old man wanted the next plane out back to Blighty.
Glad mum stuck to her guns!

Point Walter Migrant Hostel in WA. Ex Army camp, a collection of one room Nissan huts, complete with camp beds to sleep in, we were a family of 4, privacy was given with curtains streched across the room, my mum and I were totally shell shocked at the accommodation, even more so when we discovered the ablution blocks, they were dotted around the camp and were completely inadequate for the number of people housed there. The only member of our family who was able to handle all of this was my 9 year old younger brother who thought it was a great adventure. My mother and I just wanted to take the next plane back to the UK. It was not the greatest start to our new life in Australia. I think my Dad was angry for the next month while he tried to pacify both his teenage daughter and his wife.

 

[Ezzy]

My brother lived in a Nissan but at Midland while working at the Railway workshops (no longer there) with 2 young boys.

We never liked visiting in summer especially because it was so hot & with little to no ventilation.

I can sympathize with your family.