Christmas in Australia is unlike anywhere else. With sunny skies, warm weather, and backyard fun aplenty, it’s the perfect day to connect with family and celebrate in true Aussie style. Whether you’re planning a relaxed day at home or looking for action-packed ideas, here’s a list of activities to make this year’s Christmas Day unforgettable.
1. Set Up a Water Slide or Water Fight
Beat the heat with some backyard water fun! A slip-and-slide is a crowd favourite — just grab a tarp, a garden hose, and a bit of dish soap, and you’ve got a homemade water slide. Or, kick it up a notch with a full-blown water fight. Fill up water balloons, arm yourselves with water pistols, and divide the family into teams. It’s a hilarious, refreshing way to cool off and bring everyone together.
2. Host a Backyard BBQ
When it comes to Aussie Christmas traditions, the backyard barbecue is a must. Forget the heavy winter meals — throw prawns, sausages, or even pineapple slices on the grill and serve them with a variety of summer salads. Add fairy lights, a playlist of Christmas classics, and maybe some tinsel to the table for an extra festive touch. Bonus points if you follow it up with a backyard cricket game!
3. Get Competitive with Backyard Cricket
Speaking of cricket, this quintessential Aussie pastime is a Christmas Day staple. Set up the stumps, grab a bat and ball, and get everyone involved, from toddlers to grandparents. Keep the atmosphere light and fun — no need to be a pro! If you’ve got a competitive streak, create family teams and hand out “awards” like Best Bowler, Funniest Fielder, or Most Dramatic Appeal, and here are the iconic Backyard Cricket Rules.
4. Head to the Beach
With sunny skies and long summer days, an Australian Christmas is practically begging for a trip to the beach. Load up the esky with cold drinks, pack a picnic, and spend the morning splashing in the waves or building sandcastles. Bring along a beach cricket set or a frisbee to keep the whole family entertained.
5. Indulge in a Festive Family Lunch
Whether you’re staying home or heading to a park, a Christmas feast is at the heart of any celebration. In Australia, seafood takes centre stage — think fresh prawns, oysters, and barramundi — alongside delicious sides like mango salads or roasted veggies. Don’t forget dessert: pavlova, trifle, or a big bowl of cherries are perfect summer treats.
6. Create an Outdoor Movie Night
After the sun sets, gather the family for a Christmas movie under the stars. Set up a projector in the backyard and arrange some picnic rugs, beanbags, or camping chairs. Make it extra special with fairy lights, popcorn, and festive treats like candy canes or gingerbread. Films like Home Alone, Elf, or The Grinch are guaranteed to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.
7. Explore Local Christmas Lights
Many neighbourhoods in Australia are famous for their extravagant Christmas light displays. After dinner, pile into the car and drive around to see the best houses in your area. Some families even synchronise their lights to music, making it a magical way to end the day. You could turn it into a scavenger hunt by spotting things like inflatable Santas or reindeer!
8. Enjoy a Family Picnic in Nature
If you want a change of scenery, pack up a picnic and head to your nearest park or nature reserve. Bring along a mix of Christmas treats — think ham sandwiches, mince pies, and fresh fruit. Once there, play lawn games like bocce or giant Jenga, or simply relax under the shade of a tree.
9. Bring Out the Family Games
Board games, trivia, or even karaoke are always a hit on Christmas Day. Pictionary and charades can involve the whole family, while younger kids might enjoy creating festive crafts or decorating gingerbread cookies. For Christmas-themed fun, add challenges like a trivia quiz on holiday traditions or a Christmas-themed scavenger hunt in the backyard.
10. Make it About Giving Back
Christmas is also about gratitude and giving. Spend some time as a family reflecting on what the holiday means and finding ways to give back. This could include donating to a local charity, delivering care packages to neighbours, or simply writing cards to loved ones. It’s a great way to teach kids about generosity and kindness during the festive season.
Make This Christmas Day Unforgettable
In Australia, Christmas is all about sunshine, laughter, and quality time with family. Whether you’re sliding into summer with water balloons, battling it out in a backyard cricket match, or simply enjoying a shared meal, these activities ensure a day filled with fun and festive cheer. Whatever you choose, have a very merry Aussie Christmas!
