The Iglu Guide | Blog
How to do Christmas – the Australian way
If you’re new to Australia, you might not be overly familiar with a hot sunny Christmas, or even Christmas by the beach. More shockingly, you may never before have seen a surfing Santa in board shorts and thongs. Prepare yourself, because that is all about to change.
The blend of nationalities that makes up modern Australia means that Christmas is heavily inspired by winter-based European customs. And whilst it might seem crazy to cook up that full turkey dinner on a blazing hot summers day – for us Aussies, this is completely normal. But true to Aussie individuality, we have also contributed our own unique festive twists along the way.
If you’re an international student spending the festive season here, here’s your guide to celebrating Christmas — the Australian way.
Familiar traditions with a local twist
Despite the summer heat, many families still enjoy a classic Christmas lunch or dinner, complete with roast turkey, ham and all the trimmings. You’ll also see mince pies, Christmas puddings and sparkling lights on trees — just like in many Western countries.
But it’s not all about tradition. Australians are known for their relaxed, outdoor lifestyle, and that definitely applies at Christmas. Expect backyard barbecues, long lunches that spill into the evening, and a few friendly games of cricket in between.
If you’re still getting used to local expressions, it might help to brush up on your Aussie slang so you’ll know what people really mean when they say, “chuck another prawn on the barbie.”
Unique Australian Christmas traditions
There are a few festive experiences you’ll only find here:
Carols by Candlelight
This much-loved tradition began in Melbourne and now takes place in cities and towns across Australia. Thousands of people gather outdoors with candles (or glow sticks) to sing Christmas carols together — a great way to experience the community spirit and get into the festive mood.
Christmas Day at the beach
Many Australians spend Christmas Day by the ocean. If you’re near Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane, don’t be surprised to see families arriving early to set up beach tents and picnic spreads. It’s a relaxed and social way to celebrate — just remember your sunscreen and stay hydrated.
Camping at Christmas
Some families head out of the city and celebrate Christmas surrounded by nature. Camping is a summer tradition for many Australians, and campsites can book out months in advance. If you love the outdoors, this can be a memorable way to experience the holiday season.
Boxing Day celebrations
The day after Christmas, known as Boxing Day, is all about relaxing, shopping the big sales, and watching cricket. The Boxing Day Test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is an Australian sporting institution, and you’ll often find people gathered around the TV for it — even at barbecues or beach picnics.
The festive feast
Food plays a big part in any Australian Christmas. While traditional roast dinners still appear, many people prefer lighter meals that suit the summer weather.
Seafood — especially prawns — is a must-have on many tables. Some even line up early at local fish markets to get the freshest catch of the day.
Barbecues are another go-to. You’ll often find sausages (“snags”), grilled fish and colourful salads being shared among friends. Guests usually bring a dish to contribute, making it a relaxed and communal affair.
For dessert, you can’t go wrong with a quintessential Aussie classic – pavlova – a light meringue topped with cream and summer fruits like berries or mango. You might also spot the traditional White Christmas slice — a sweet, coconut-filled treat that’s a nostalgic favourite.
Making the most of summer holidays
Once Christmas Day is over, the holiday spirit continues through the long summer break. For students, it’s a great opportunity make the most of your time in Australia, travel, explore and enjoy a slower pace before the new study year begins.
You might spend your days discovering local festivals, joining community celebrations or ticking off experiences from your Aussie bucket list. From coastal adventures to cultural events, there’s always something happening — especially during summer.
However you choose to spend it, Christmas in Australia is a celebration of warmth, friendship and sunshine — a little different from what you might be used to, but one you’ll never forget.
