Who says you have to wait until December to celebrate Christmas?
Christmas in July has become one of the most popular summer party themes, combining sunshine, backyard BBQs, pool parties, and holiday fun into one unforgettable event. Whether you're hosting family, neighbors, coworkers, or friends, adding a few creative activities can turn an ordinary cookout into a celebration everyone will remember.
One of our favorite additions? A Santa Surfer Scratch-Off Game that gets guests laughing, interacting, and competing for prizes all afternoon long.
Why Celebrate Christmas in July?
Christmas in July is the perfect excuse to gather everyone together during the warm summer months. It offers all the fun of the holidays—without the snow.
It's perfect for:
- Backyard BBQs
- Neighborhood block parties
- Pool parties
- Family reunions
- Camping weekends
- Church picnics
- Office summer parties
- Community events
The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy for guests of all ages to join in the fun.
1. Start with a Backyard BBQ
Fire up the grill and serve everyone's summer favorites.
Popular menu ideas include:
- Burgers & hot dogs
- BBQ chicken
- Corn on the cob
- Watermelon
- Pasta salad
- Potato salad
- Fresh fruit
- Ice cream sandwiches
Don't forget plenty of cold lemonade and tropical drinks to keep everyone cool.
2. Play the Santa Surfer Scratch-Off Game ⭐

Nothing gets people talking like a scratch-off game.
Instead of handing out door prizes at random, let everyone scratch to reveal whether they're a winner.
Our Santa Surfer Christmas in July Scratch-Off Game is perfect for:
- Prize giveaways
- Door prizes
- Kids vs. adults competitions
- Icebreakers
- Party favors
Everyone gets involved, and the excitement builds with every scratch.
Prize Ideas
- Gift cards
- Beach towels
- Ice cream coupons
- Summer toys
- Mini coolers
- BBQ tools
- Holiday ornaments
- Candy canes (because why not?)
3. Decorate with Tropical Christmas Style
Mix Christmas traditions with summer colors.
Think:
🎄 Flamingos wearing Santa hats
🎄 Surfboards
🎄 Palm trees with ornaments
🎄 Hawaiian leis
🎄 String lights
🎄 Red, green, turquoise, and yellow decorations
The combination creates a fun, relaxed atmosphere.
4. Host Water Games
If it's hot outside, water games are always a hit.
Ideas include:
- Water balloon toss
- Slip 'N Slide races
- Sprinkler obstacle course
- Kiddie pool treasure hunt
- Water gun challenge
Have small prizes for winners—or let them scratch a Santa Surfer game card for a chance to win.
5. Have a Christmas Cookie Decorating Contest
Who says cookies are only for December?
Set out:
- Sugar cookies
- Frosting
- Sprinkles
- Colored icing
- Candy decorations
Award prizes for:
- Most Creative
- Funniest Cookie
- Best Summer Theme
6. Create a Frozen Treat Bar
Cool everyone down with a DIY dessert station.
Offer:
- Popsicles
- Ice cream
- Root beer floats
- Frozen lemonade
- Snow cones
- Ice cream toppings
Guests can build their own summer treat.
7. Wear Your Favorite Christmas Shirt

Encourage everyone to wear:
- Hawaiian Christmas shirts
- Santa hats
- Christmas sunglasses
- Tropical Christmas outfits
- Flip-flops with festive colors
The photos will be priceless.
8. Play Summer Christmas Trivia
Create a few rounds of holiday-themed trivia with a summer twist.
Examples:
- Name Santa's reindeer.
- What's the hottest Christmas destination?
- Which Christmas movie takes place in Los Angeles?
- Finish the Christmas lyric.
Award winners with scratch-off game cards or small prizes.
9. Set Up a Photo Booth
Create a festive backdrop with:
- Inflatable palm trees
- Surfboards
- Santa hats
- Beach balls
- Sunglasses
- Holiday garland
Guests will love sharing their photos on social media.
10. Send Everyone Home with a Party Favor
A small thank-you gift helps guests remember the party.
Ideas include:
- Santa Surfer Scratch-Off Game Cards
- Mini sunscreen
- Christmas ornaments
- Candy canes
- Flip-flop keychains
- Holiday cookies
- Drink koozies
Simple favors can leave a lasting impression.
Make This Christmas in July One to Remember
The best parties aren't about expensive decorations—they're about creating moments people talk about long after the grill has cooled down.
Adding interactive games like the Santa Surfer Scratch-Off Game brings laughter, excitement, and friendly competition to guests of all ages. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, neighborhood gathering, or pool party, it's a fun way to surprise your guests and keep everyone engaged.
After all...
Who says Christmas magic only happens in December?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Christmas in July?
Christmas in July is a summer celebration that brings the fun of the holidays to warm-weather gatherings. It's popular for backyard BBQs, pool parties, family reunions, and community events.
What games are good for a Christmas in July party?
Scratch-off games, water balloon contests, trivia, scavenger hunts, cookie decorating, and lawn games are all great choices for guests of every age.
What prizes can I give away?
Popular prizes include gift cards, beach towels, ice cream coupons, BBQ accessories, summer toys, drink tumblers, and holiday-themed treats.
How do you decorate for Christmas in July?
Combine traditional Christmas decorations with tropical elements like palm trees, surfboards, flamingos, string lights, and bright summer colors.
