Christmas in the Bush -- and other Australian Christmas Traditions
You’ve heard of Christmas trees, but have you heard of a Christmas bush? Learn this and other Australian Christmas traditions
If you've ever wondered about Australian Christmas traditions and Christmas 'down under', wonder no more! Here are some funny, unusual, and exciting traditions that are near and dear to Aussie hearts. Who knows? You may want to start one if these traditions in your home
Carols by candlelight
Nothing unusual about this Australian Christmas tradition -- except they sing carols in shorts. Thanks to the warm weather that Aussie's have during Christmas, they get to do their celebrating in shorts and short-sleeved tops. Different to us, but that does not take away the beauty of Christmas Eve when tens of thousands gather in the city of Melbourne to sing their favorite Christmas carols. This wonderful tradition got its start in 1937 and grows stronger every year.
Oh Christmas Bush, Oh Christmas Bush...
Yes, a bush. But this isn't just any old bush, it is a native plant that has little red flowered leaves and is quite pretty. This is why Aussies surround themselves with it at Christmas time.
Care for Christmas pudding mate?
Turns out Christmas pudding isn't just for the English, it's an Australian Christmas food tradition as well. During the days of the Australian gold rushes, it was tradition to put a gold nugget in the pudding. The lucky person finding the nugget got to keep it. Today, a simple trinket will do but reportedly, they still have good luck for the year to come.
Swimming party & picnic anyone?
Because Australia is down under, their seasons are opposite of those in the United States; therefore, they get to do summertime activities during their Christmas break. Thousands go to the beach on Christmas day, have picnics or pool parties in their backyards.
Whether it's at the beach or in the backyard, the highlight of the day is the midday meal. Much like our Christmas dinners, it consists of turkey, ham, and all the trimmings.
Santa on a surfboard
Maybe not exactly a tradition, but don't be surprised if you see Santa surf up to the shore hanging ten or show up at your picnic in shorts to pass out the gifts. Some Aussies go with the tradition of Santa and some choose Father Christmas. Either way, it's exciting for the kids.
While Australian Christmas traditions are different from ours, you have to admit that family, gift giving, and love is at the heart of their celebrations.