For many families, Christmas is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a feeling. It’s the laughter around the dinner table, the sparkle in a child’s eye, and the quiet joy of being together. That’s why the idea of Christmas in July resonates so deeply. It’s a second chance to pause, reconnect, and soak up the magic—this time in shorts and sandals.
Across the U.S., a handful of destinations embrace the spirit of the season with Santa sightings, festive lights, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re craving nostalgia, novelty, or just an excuse to sip frozen hot chocolate poolside, these spots deliver.
Santa Claus, Indiana
In Santa Claus, Indiana, holiday cheer waves right alongside Old Glory.
This town doesn’t just dabble in holiday cheer—it lives it year-round. But July brings a special kind of magic. Visitors can meet Santa at the Santa Claus Museum & Village, sip frozen hot chocolate at Santa’s Candy Castle, and ride coasters at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari—a theme park that blends Christmas, Halloween, and Fourth of July into one unforgettable experience.
West Jefferson, North Carolina
Tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this small town hosts a full-blown Christmas in July Festival. Expect live music, artisan vendors, and a visit from Santa himself—often in short sleeves. Surrounded by Christmas tree farms and Appalachian charm, it’s a celebration that feels both festive and homegrown.
Jellystone Park Campgrounds (Various Locations)
Yogi Bear’s campgrounds across the country go all-in on Christmas in July. Families can enjoy campsite decorating contests, a visit from Santa in shorts, foam “snowball” fights, and holiday crafts. It’s a playful, low-key getaway where kids can roast marshmallows with Santa, and parents can unwind under twinkling lights.
O’Neil Creek Campground – Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin
This Midwest campground transforms into a holiday village each July. Think breakfast with Santa, Grinch-themed bingo, movies under the stars, and a holiday train ride. The on-site canteen delivers burgers, soft serve, and craft cocktails right to your site. It’s festive fun with a side of fish fry.
Oak Lake RV Resort – Fair Oaks, Indiana
At Oak Lake, the celebration includes fireworks, site decorating contests, and a gift exchange. Santa makes an appearance, and the whole campground glows with lights and laughter. It’s cozy, community-driven, and full of small-town spirit.
Christmas Farm Inn & Spa – Jackson, New Hampshire
Perched in the White Mountains, this inn offers a quieter, more romantic take on Christmas in July. Themed dinners, spa specials, and twinkling lights set the mood for a cozy summer escape. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, sip something festive, and reconnect with the people who matter most.
Running Reindeer Ranch – Fairbanks, Alaska
Up close, this gentle giant reminds us that the magic of the season lives in the details—soft eyes, velvet antlers, and a quiet kind of grace.
While not a traditional Christmas in July destination, this reindeer walk through a boreal forest delivers pure magic. We visited Fairbanks and enjoyed a magical encounter with real-life reindeer—and I haven’t seen Julie smile that much outside of time with our kids or granddaughter. These mythical creatures move with grace and curiosity, reminding us that the spirit of Christmas isn’t tied to a season.
Chalfont, Pennsylvania
Just north of Philadelphia, Chalfont brings small-town warmth to its Christmas in July celebration. Locals gather for parades, live music, and holiday-themed games that turn a summer afternoon into something special. A community tree lighting caps off the festivities, offering a nostalgic nod to December—minus the frostbite. It’s the kind of event where neighbors linger, kids laugh with sticky snow-cone smiles, and the spirit of the season shines through in every detail.
When One Holiday Mashup Just Isn’t Enough
Christmas in July isn’t just about novelty—it’s about carving out time for joy, connection, and a little bit of magic. For our family, that’s reason enough to celebrate.
And if you’re the kind of traveler who loves a good seasonal twist, there’s another holiday waiting in the wings—Summerween, where jack-o-lanterns meet beach balls, and costumes come out under the sun.
With festive mashups like these, you just might have your most memorable July yet.