Christmas Gifts

Christmas in Australia 2024 

The History of Christmas

Christmas, as we know it today, has roots that go back over 2,000 years. Its origin lies in the Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, whom they believed to be the Son of God. The word "Christmas" comes from "Christ's Mass," a church service that commemorated Jesus’ birth. But long before it became associated with Christianity, many ancient cultures celebrated festivals around the winter solstice. For example, the Romans had Saturnalia, a week-long feast in honour of Saturn, the god of agriculture. During Saturnalia, social norms were flipped, gifts were exchanged, and houses were decorated with greenery.

When Christianity spread, the church wanted to provide an alternative to these pagan celebrations, choosing 25th December as the date for Jesus' birth. Though there's no historical evidence that Jesus was born on that date, the symbolism of light returning after the darkest day of the year fit well with the story of the Saviour's birth. Over time, many local traditions merged into what we now recognise as Christmas, blending religious observances with festive customs like feasting, gift-giving, and decorating. The modern image of Christmas—like Father Christmas, carol singing, and Christmas trees—has developed over centuries, incorporating elements from various countries and cultures.

When is Christmas in Australia in 2024?

In Australia, Christmas falls on 25th December—just like in most parts of the world. 

However, there's a little twist because Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere – so, Christmas comes right in the middle of summer! 

In 2024, it will be no different—Australians will celebrate Christmas on Wednesday, 25th December. While much of the world associates Christmas with snow, fireplaces, and cosy jumpers, Australians will likely be enjoying beach barbecues, sunbathing, and swimming.

It’s quite a contrast to the traditional images of Christmas many people around the world have, but in Australia, the summer vibes fit perfectly with our laid-back, outdoor-loving culture. Many families will gather for a seafood feast or roast dinner, but they'll be more likely to be eating outdoors, maybe even under the shade of a big tree or at the beach. The festive spirit is the same, though—there’s still the excitement of gift-giving, singing Christmas carols for ‘Carols by Candlelight’, and spending time with loved ones. Despite the heat, some Australians stick to the tradition of decorating their homes with snow-themed ornaments, Father Christmas suits, and Christmas lights!

How Does Australia Celebrate Christmas?

Australian Christmas celebrations are a mix of global traditions and uniquely Australian elements. While Christmas trees, stockings, and presents remain at the heart of the holiday, the summer season gives the festivities a distinctive flavour. 

Many Australians embrace the outdoors for Christmas, making the most of the warm weather by hosting barbecues, having picnics, or heading to the beach. Bondi Beach in Sydney, for instance, is a hotspot for Christmas Day, where both locals and tourists gather to celebrate with sand instead of snow.

Food plays a huge role in Australian Christmas – obviously! Although the traditional roast ham, turkey, and plum pudding are still popular, seafood is often the star of the table. Prawns, oysters, and lobster are served alongside fresh salads and tropical fruits like mangoes and cherries. For dessert, pavlova—a meringue-based treat topped with fresh fruit—makes an appearance at many holiday gatherings.

Christmas in Australia also means a strong emphasis on community events. In the lead-up to Christmas, many cities and towns hold "Carols by Candlelight," where families gather outdoors to sing Christmas carols under the stars. Houses and neighbourhoods are often decorated with elaborate displays of Christmas lights, and locals take pride in outshining one another with their festive setups. It’s a season of joy, relaxation, and a very special Aussie blend of tradition and summer fun.

Is Christmas Eve a Public Holiday in Australia?

Christmas Eve in Australia is NOT a public holiday in most states and territories. For many Australians, it's a normal working day, although people usually finish work earlier to get ready for Christmas Day festivities. Shops and businesses may close earlier than usual, so employees get to go home and prepare for the big day. 

However, in some states like South Australia and the Northern Territory, Christmas Eve is considered a part-day public holiday starting from 7 pm. This means workers in these regions are entitled to holiday pay rates if they work during the evening.

Even though it's not a full public holiday across Australia, Christmas Eve still holds special meaning. Families often use the evening to come together for last-minute preparations, like wrapping gifts or finishing off the Christmas meal. Many also attend midnight Mass or church services to mark the religious aspect of the holiday. Children eagerly go to bed, knowing that Father Christmas will soon arrive with his sleigh full of presents. 

In fact, many Australian kids leave out a cold beer or a bottle of water for Father Christmas—because, let's be honest, it’s a hot job delivering presents in Australia’s summer heat! 

For those not working late, Christmas Eve can feel magical, full of anticipation and festive cheer as they await the main event—Christmas Day.

The Significance of the Christmas Tree—and How it Came to be the Most Popular Christmas Decoration

The Christmas tree is one of the most iconic symbols of the holiday season. It stands for warmth, togetherness, and the spirit of giving. The tradition of bringing a tree into the home and decorating it dates back to ancient times, with roots in pagan winter solstice celebrations. 

Long before Christianity, evergreen trees symbolised life and renewal in the dead of winter, as their green needles stayed a deep, verdant green even in the cold. In Germany, this custom evolved into the Christmas tree tradition as we know it today.

The modern Christmas tree began to take shape in the 16th century in Germany, where devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. Legend has it that Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, was the first to add candles to a tree, inspired by the twinkling stars he saw through the trees one winter night. From there, the practice spread across Europe and eventually to other parts of the world.

In the 19th century, the Christmas tree gained popularity in England, thanks to Queen Victoria and her husband Prince Albert, who was of German descent. A famous illustration of the royal family gathered around their decorated tree made the tradition fashionable across Britain and the United States. Over time, the Christmas tree has become a symbol of the holiday season, often lit up with strings of lights, twinkling ornaments, and a star or angel on top. The Christmas tree is not just a decoration but a centrepiece for family gatherings and gift exchanges, representing joy, love, and the magic of Christmastime.

Best-Selling Christmas Gifts for 2024

The Deck The Halls Christmas Wreath (Hint: It’s All Chocolate!)

This popular Christmas gift from Tastebuds is made of Ferrero Rocher Chocolate Balls, Chocolatier Belgian Milk Chocolate Stars, and assorted Christmas Baubles to make a gorgeous Christmas wreath that edible – delicious!

The Australian Wine Christmas Hamper

Packed with Shiraz and Chardonnay courtesy of Azahara – a well-loved Aussie wine – and other yummy Australian treats. Try it. You’ll love it!

Chocolate Lover Christmas Hamper 

Love Toblerone? Want a hamper full of assorted chocs this Christmas? For those lovers of popular and artisanal chocolates, the Chocolate Lover Christmas Hamper is for you.

Ferrero Christmas Wishes Wreath

30 Ferrero Rocher chocolate balls in a wreath? No one’s gonna say ‘No’ to this. It’s the perfect Christmas gift. 

Silly Season Chocolate Bouquet

This silly little gift is a Tastebuds best-seller for a reason. The choc bouquet comes with Stag Chardonnay for a bunch of extra fun.