If we have gleaned anything from the deluge of holiday movies, mass-produced decorations, and jingle bell-infused songs, it's that the popular narrative has determined Christmas is a holiday best served frosty. Whatever!
The bigwigs in the top of the equator may have convinced the world, but that's only because they are without the inherent understanding we denizens of the south possess: a sun-drenched Christmas is simply the better way. This season is stressful enough – regardless of temperature – but at least we don't have to contend with seasonal depression on top of it all.
Frosty Formative Years
And this isn't just an empty claim. I spent my entire childhood experiencing cold festive seasons. Despite my family hailing from New Zealand, my father's career meant inevitable international moves. My younger years were scattered across the UK and the US, meaning every December brought early nightfall and a biting chill on my cheeks. The sole upside? The fashion choices; bundling up is inherently stylish.
In fairness, a cold Christmas has its appeal. It's time-honored, classic, and the possibility of snow is truly magical. The snug appeal of a chilly celebration is hard to dismiss. Yet, with my extended family on the other side of the world, I always felt I was missing out an true celebration that not even the most decadent hot chocolate could make up for.
The Southern Shift
Everything changed when another move brought my family to Australia. There, I finally experienced a proper festive family affair, joined by extended relatives for the first time. With a bigger crowd to entertain, my father got creative in the kitchen, crafting a heavily marinated vodka jelly that left everyone reeling. We slept soundly that night.
This became our tradition for years – sharing the day with family and friends, complete with water gun fights across the table. That was, until my parents heeded the opportunity of a new job and moved to a particularly cold part of northern England.
Nostalgia's Surprise
Visiting them for Christmas after a long absence, I anticipated a wave of nostalgic longing. Instead, I found myself yearning for everything that made a summer Christmas unique. Enjoying a cool drink in the sun. Feasting upon piles of fresh fruit. Loved ones being just a short drive away. Vibrant sunsets painting the sky. In that moment, I was a hot-Christmas convert.
"That summer heat eased the grief in significant ways."
This feeling was reinforced after my father passed away. My mother decided to move back to New Zealand. The first Christmas without him was incredibly tough, his absence felt everywhere. Yet, being once more surrounded by family under the gentle heat of the summer sun helped ease the grief in profound ways.
Conflicting Celebrations
All this said, I readily admit to being a walking contradiction. This year, I'll be celebrating during winter in South Korea, and I'm truly looking forward to wander around Seoul in my fluffiest coat, hoping for a glimpse of snow. The cold Christmas propaganda still has a slight grip on me!
Still, I'm eager to return home for another New Year's Day under the Australian summer sun. Knowing my family – including a newborn nephew – will be close by as we enter the new year fills me with a happiness my younger self always craved. Not even the deepest powder can hold a candle to that feeling.
