Christmas Traditions

Christmas in Sydney is a unique encounter for our Northern Hemisphere visitors due to the hot weather, sunny skies and a distinct lack of snow and sleighbells. But Sydneysiders don’t skimp on tradition. The temperatures might be scorching, but conventional roast lunches (with the odd prawn thrown in!) are regular fare for most families. Australians see-saw among long-standing Christmas traditions – such as hearty winter Christmas dinners and carolling – and making their own.

Christmas for a lot of Australians also indicates a day at the beach, in the sun or about the barbecue. A lot of Australians take advantage of the public holiday to soak up some rays and hit the waves.

If you are visiting Sydney for Christmas, here’s a guide on what to expect and some tips on how to celebrate when away from property.

- Christmas meals. While most organizations (which includes restaurants) are closed on Christmas Day, restaurants related with hotels often offer you a Christmas meal. The key is to book early, as they usually book out months in advance. Yet another option when spending Christmas away from house is to volunteer at 1 of the many charity Christmas lunches and dinners that are supplied for those in need about Sydney.

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- Christmas beach days. Alternatively, you can stock up on supplies and head to the beach for a Christmas BBQ. Most Sydney beaches have totally free BBQ facilities (or can be used for a nominal price). It is a wonderful way to make the most of the warm weather and stunning beaches and have a special Christmas experience. Bondi Beach – a notorious magnet for both tourists and international residents – hosts an annual Christmas party in the Bondi Pavilion. Called ‘Sunburnt Christmas’, it is a ticketed event that is popular with backpackers.

- Boxing Day. Although Boxing Day is a public holiday in numerous Commonwealth countries, Australia has developed its own exclusive celebrations and traditions to suit all tastes. If you are a shopaholic, then you’ll be in retail heaven at the Boxing Day sales. Significant department stores and CBD retailers open their doors as early as 5am, and slash their prices considerably. It’s a mad rush to grab the best bargains! If you’re much more of a sports fan, then you will also adore this holiday. The 4th game of the Ashes Test is played on Boxing Day. Even though it is played in Melbourne the cricket commentary can be heard from several Australian lounge rooms. Sydney Harbour also comes alive with thousands of sails for the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race. No matter whether you are out on the water or watching from the Sydney cliffs, seeing the yachts sail out of the harbour is very a spectacle.

If you’re spending Christmas in Sydney, then adopt a couple of Australian traditions for an unforgettable encounter. Accommodation in Sydney is straightforward to come by, and most Sydney accommodation providers will do almost everything they can to make your Christmas away from house as memorable and enjoyable as feasible!

Have you skilled a beach Christmas?