In Australia, Christmas festivities uniquely blend tradition with a touch of Aussie charm. Preparation kicks off at the beginning of December with the setting up of Christmas trees, decorations and advent calendars. Decorations include lights, pictures taken with Santa Clause, native Australian trees and nativity scenes. Inflatable Santas and kangaroos add a humorous touch to outdoor decor. The Christmas spirit is shared at outdoor concerts and sing-alongs of popular Christmas carols.
On Christmas Day, families exchange gifts and children open their stockings, shortly followed by a trip to the beach for a morning swim! The extended family then comes together for a barbecue Christmas lunch with seafood feasts. Tables are adorned with bonbons, which are pulled to reveal everyone’s Christmas crown, joke and knick-knack. The Christmas lunch typically consists of prawns, ham, salmon, lamb, salads, and the iconic Pavlova dessert or trifle. “Secret Santa” gifts are exchanged with the extended family, with music and maybe even a dip in the pool to cool off!
