Christmas in July is the perfect excuse to plan a festive summer soiree and give guests all the holiday feels smack dab in the middle of the summer. It’s also the perfect time to do a summer gift exchange since July is prime time for retailers to offer major deals on seasonal goodies. There are a few key elements you need to successfully pull off a Christmas in July gift exchange party, which can be done in-person or virtually.
Planning A Christmas in July Party
First off, you need some festive decor to get everyone in the spirit. To decorate for the party, try adding some summer-inspired touches to the holiday decor you already own. Swap the fancy metallic ornaments for natural seashells hung on a tree or make a wreath out of cocktail umbrellas. If you’re feeling ambitious, we love Martha Stewart’s Beachy Keepsakes Seaside-Inspired Christmas Tree.
Onto another important element of the party, the food. For festive but still weather appropriate treats, try cutting watermelon in the shape of christmas trees or having a s’more roasting station with some peppermint additions. Let guests cool off with some frozen hot chocolate or yummy sugar cookie popsicles.
Finally, our personal favorite part of this party theme, the Gift Exchange. It being the middle of summer, and prime-time for sales on summer goodies, have the gift exchange be summer themed. Make it easy on yourself (and everyone) by using Elfster to organize the exchange.
Summer-Themed Gift Ideas
Fancy Pool Floats: Lavish pool floats have been all the rage the past few summers. It started with the swans and flamingos, and now you can lounge on a Rose Bottle Pool Float, an Avocado Pool Float or even a Pineapple Pool Float. The perfect gift for anyone who loves getting the perfect summer insta-shot.
Outdoor games: It’s no longer just about bocce ball and frisbee, there’s a new crop of fun outdoor summer games popping up, and they aren’t just for the kiddies. Gift this Giant Toppling Tower, Inflatable Cactus Shaped Ring Toss, or Prosecco Pong and you’re sure to score an invite back to every summer party all season long.
Summer Beverage Helpers: For many of us, nothing says summer like a cold bottle of Rosè or Summer Shandy. Long days and Fridays off are meant to be enjoyed. Here are some gifts perfect for those who love to let loose. Gift this On-The-Go Rolling Picnic Cooler, a Mojito Cocktail Kit or this Tropical Inflatable Drink Holder Set to your favorite summer party animal
Summer-Themed Edible Treats: You can never go wrong with gifting something yummy and delicious. Just aim for something a little out of the ordinary and seasonal to make more of a gifting impact. Try a sugarfina Peach Bellini Candy Cube or a Dylan’s Candy Bar Tackle Box.
With these easy tips, there’s no reason you can’t celebrate the holidays twice a year from here on out. So grab that stowed away box of wrapping paper and get your blender handy because it’s time to party like it’s Christmas in July!
If you’re looking for more Summer gift ideas ideas, browse our Summer Fun Gift Guide or start a gift exchange for even more festive fun. You can follow Elfster on Facebook, Instagram @Elfster, or Twitter @Elfster to get more ideas that are sure to heat up Christmas in July.
