Christmas in July: Winter Events in Australia with Glow Sticks and Family Fun

While the rest of the world dreams of a white Christmas in December, Australians have carved out a festive tradition of their own—Christmas in July. Also known as Yulefest, this mid-year celebration lets Aussies experience all the magic of a winter Christmas, complete with roaring fires, hearty meals, and yes, even snow in some regions.

What started as a quirky way to enjoy northern hemisphere-style festivities during Australia’s coldest months has grown into a much-loved annual event. Across the country, towns and cities come alive with twinkling lights, faux snow, carollers in scarves, and an ever-growing list of family-friendly winter events—some of which even incorporate glow sticks and magical light displays.

If you're looking for ways to celebrate Christmas in July this year, here are some of the best winter events across Australia that mix festive cheer, family fun, and a touch of glow-in-the-dark excitement.

Every July, the streets of Melbourne’s Glen Waverley precinct are transformed during the Glow Winter Arts Festival. While not strictly Christmas-themed, it embodies the festive winter spirit with interactive light installations, glowing sculptures, and a bustling family-friendly vibe.

Families are encouraged to bring glow sticks, wear light-up accessories, and explore the vibrant displays that light up the night. Food trucks, live music, and even illuminated silent discos are often on the agenda, making it a perfect evening out for all ages.

Tip: Dress warm and arrive early—this event gets crowded quickly!

If you're dreaming of a traditional Christmas dinner by a crackling fire, the Blue Mountains Yulefest is your go-to destination. Many of the local guesthouses, hotels, and restaurants offer authentic Christmas meals, complete with roast turkey, plum pudding, and mulled wine.

Several venues take things up a notch by adding evening lantern walks or glow stick treasure hunts through the cold mountain air. For kids, it’s like being in a magical winter storybook—minus the jet lag of flying to Europe.

The Scenic World attraction in Katoomba sometimes hosts after-dark events, where the forest walkways and skyway rides are lit up with winter-themed lights.

Darling Harbour’s Winterfest is a favourite with Sydney families. Each July, the precinct is packed with winter-themed activities, from ice skating and snow pits to light projections and evening performances. Glow sticks and fun flashing accessories such as LED Shutter Glasses are often handed out at night, especially during weekend light shows.

There are also roaming performers, faux snow showers, and holiday markets where you can warm up with hot chocolate or pick out a quirky gift. It’s the perfect setting for a family night out—festive enough for adults and magical enough for kids.

One of the most impressive Christmas in July experiences can be found at Sovereign Hill during its Winter Wonderlights event. This living museum transforms its 1850s streetscape with dazzling light projections, glowing lanterns, and a schedule full of festive activities.

Families can stroll through the old-timey village with glow sticks in hand as snowflakes fall (courtesy of snow machines), brass bands play carols, and costumed actors bring Christmas traditions to life.

Kids especially love the craft workshops and sweet treats available throughout the village, while parents appreciate the nostalgic charm.

Across regional Australia, more communities are embracing the glow this July with local winter glow parties. These community events, often hosted by councils or schools, center around simple fun: think glow stick dance parties, UV face painting, and nighttime family walks with fairy lights and torches.

Even if you don’t have a major event nearby, hosting your own “Glow Christmas in July” party is easy: hang string lights, grab some glow-in-the-dark decorations, serve warm food, and let the kids run around with glow sticks while you enjoy some mulled wine.

To get the most out of your mid-year festivities, here are a few quick tips:

Bundle up: It may not be snowing everywhere, but Aussie winters can still bite, especially at night. Pack coats, scarves, and gloves.
Bring your own glow gear: Many events welcome or even encourage guests to wear glow sticks, LED accessories, and flashing headwear.
Plan ahead: Events fill up fast, especially those with limited capacity or dining packages.
Capture the moment: These colourful winter nights make for great family photos—especially under a canopy of twinkling lights.

Christmas in July offers a magical way to break up the winter blues and create lasting memories with your family. Whether you're skating under the stars, wandering through historic towns aglow with lanterns, or dancing the night away with glow sticks in hand, there’s something undeniably festive about embracing the chill and leaning into the light.

So grab your coats, charge your cameras, and get glowing—Australia’s winter wonderlands are waiting.