You don’t need to travel far if you want a white Christmas in Sydney this July. We’re talking hearty roasts, fireside drinks, and dressing up in your festive (see: questionable) jumpers – things Australians have been missing out on for years, given our actual Christmas is in the middle of summer.
Hence, Christmas in July is increasingly popular each year for Aussies, which means some of the country’s finest restaurants and cafes have a bit of a theme to play around with before we enter our final month of winter.
For Sydneysiders, Christmas in July brings a bunch of tempting offers from some of the city’s most reliable spots including The Greens in North Sydney and Forrester’s in Surry Hills.
Sydney Travel Guide has sifted through some of the events happening around town at the end of this month to bring you a guide on how to celebrate Christmas in July in Sydney this year. Some events are even bringing in fake snow to add a slice of authenticity – now that’s dedication.
1. Roast some s’mores at The Greens | June 1 – August 31
Satisfy your cravings at The Greens with a Campfire S’mores Box for just $15, featuring cookies and marshmallows to satisfy any festive sugar cravings. The Greens have also put together a Winter Warmers Package for those who prefer savoury bites, including pulled pork rolls with smoky BBQ sauce on a milk bun with fries. Plus there will be a Christmas in July set menu offered right up until the end of August.
Where: The Greens, 50 Ridge St, North Sydney
When: June 1 – August 31
Cost: From $15
2. Take a jolly cruise around Sydney Harbour | July 27
After a more substantial family-friendly way to celebrate Christmas in July in Sydney? Jump on board the three-hour Christmas in July Lunch Cruise on Sydney Harbour and enjoy a huge themed buffet with seafood, carvery, Christmas pudding, coffee, and tea, all with festive decorations and bonbons. There will be live music and expansive views of the harbour. Bring your family and friends, kids under 5 are free and get them all to wear their best Christmas jumper for a chance to win some exciting prizes.
Where: Sydney Harbour
When: July 27
Cost: From $85
3. Have a Christmas feast at Forrester’s | July 1 – July 31
Reserve a table at Forrester’s this July for a winter dining experience that will leave you as jolly as Santa himself. The kitchen;s set menu features slow-cooked roast pork belly, tangy braised red cabbage, and Yorkshire puddings perfect for soaking in the holiday spirit. Finish your meal with a delightful winter dessert: golden apple strudel paired with creamy vanilla ice cream.
Where: Forrester’s, 336 Riley St, Surry Hills
When: July 1-31
Cost: $79pp
4. Dance in (fake) snow at Side Bar | July 24
Join Side Bar’s Christmas in July Party for a night of snowy fun, festive anthems, and numerous giveaways. With snow machines and plenty of chances to win, this is one party that no Christmas-loving partygoer would want to miss. The festivities begin at 8pm and push until midnight to give you something a bit different to do on a cold Saturday evening.
Where: Side Bar, 509 Pitt St, Haymarket NSW 2000
When: July 24
Cost: $11.43 – $62.05
5. Melt some cheese on a rooftop at Broadway | June 29 – July 28
The French have the right idea when it comes to celebrating Christmas in the dead of winter, and Broadway Sydney is channelling a bit of that Parisian magic for its annual Christmas in July offering. Head up to the rooftop where you will find several private igloos (each designed for up to 8 people) with tables so you can sip on mulled wine and dip into a classic Raclette cheese melt while picking away at a special charcuterie and pickle board. It’s one of the most stylish ways to celebrate Christmas in July in Sydney this year so get those bookings in now.
Where: Broadway Sydney rooftop
When: June 29 – July 28
Cost: $99pp – $110pp
