Christmas In July Decor & Recipe Inspiration
Out here on the homestead, July brings long sun-filled days, garden baskets brimming with produce, and just the faintest whisper of Christmas in the air. Maybe it’s the early morning dew or the soft glow of fireflies, but something about mid-summer always makes me crave a little holiday magic.
So this year, I teamed up with a couple of dear blogging friends to bring you a “Christmas in July” roundup. It’s filled with cozy recipes, handmade crafts, and simple traditions that let you celebrate the season. Without the December rush.
Maybe you want to sip on warm wassail or make a festive garland with the kids. Either way, these ideas are easy, homey, and full of heart.
Why You’ll love This Christmas In July Roundup
Uses pantry staples and natural elements (like oranges, cinnamon, and wood slices)
Great for family time—kids can help with baking or crafting
Adds a little sparkle to summer without a ton of prep
Perfect for planning ahead or enjoying a bit of calm Christmas magic now
Simple Traditions from Kowalski Mountain
First up, I’ve got some cozy inspiration from my friend Barbara-Sue over at Kowalski Mountain. She shares about homesteading, faith, and family life. Her holiday content always has that warm, old-fashioned charm I love. Barbara-Sue also has a great YouTube channel where she brings her projects and recipes to life, so definitely check her out if you’re more of a visual learner!
Old-Fashioned Christmas Tree
Barbra-Sue’s old-fashioned Christmas tree brings back everything we love about the holidays—simple, handmade, and full of meaning. She shares how her family decorates with intention, using natural materials, family heirlooms, and crafts that tell a story. It’s the kind of tree that makes you want to slow down, sip something warm, and take it all in.
What I love most is how she shows that beauty doesn’t come from matching ornaments or trends. It’s about creating something with your hands and heart. Her tips are practical but thoughtful, and it’s a beautiful reminder that preparing for Christmas can be a slow, joyful process that starts even in July.
Best Old-Fashioned Ginger Snaps
These cookies are everything a ginger snap should be. Crisp on the edges, slightly chewy in the middle, and packed with warm spice. They remind me of something you’d find in a tin at grandma’s house, shared with a hot cup of tea or cider.
Barbra-Sue’s recipe sticks to the classics, and that’s exactly what makes it shine. They’re easy to whip up with pantry staples, and perfect for gifting, dunking, or just sneaking one (or three) while no one’s looking. These would be lovely paired with her non-alcoholic holiday punch for a cozy, mid-summer treat.
Winter Holiday Punch (Non-Alcoholic)
This festive punch is a refreshing way to bring a little holiday cheer into the middle of summer. It’s non-alcoholic, family-friendly, and full of bright, crisp flavors that feel just as welcome at a backyard gathering as they do on a holiday table.
What makes this punch special is how easy it is to pull together. No fancy ingredients, just good, wholesome flavor. It’s a great make-ahead option too, which makes it perfect for relaxed entertaining. Serve it chilled with some ginger snaps on the side, and you’ve got yourself a little slice of Christmas magic in July.
Homemade Holidays (from me!)
Here are a few of my favorite Christmas-inspired recipes and crafts. Each one a little piece of the season that you can enjoy right now or save for when the weather turns cold. These are the projects I come back to year after year because they’re simple, meaningful, and bring that cozy, handmade feel to the holidays.
From warm drinks simmering on the stove to natural garlands strung up in the window, these ideas are rooted in tradition but easy enough for everyday life. They’re also perfect for getting a head start on holiday prep without the pressure—just quiet moments of creating, baking, and enjoying the little things.
Christmas Cinnamon Star Bread
This cinnamon star bread is one of those recipes that looks incredibly impressive but is surprisingly simple to make. The dough is soft and tender, layered with buttery cinnamon sugar, and twisted into a beautiful star shape that feels right out of a holiday bakery window.
It’s perfect for Christmas morning—or Christmas in July, if you’re craving a little magic now. I love serving it warm, with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of strong coffee. It’s a showstopper that invites gathering, sharing, and a few “how did you make this?!” questions every time.
Orange Garland and Ornament Tutorial
There’s something almost magical about slicing up fresh oranges, watching them turn golden and translucent in the oven, and stringing them into something beautiful. This orange garland is one of my favorite simple holiday crafts—natural, timeless, and easy enough to do in an afternoon.
What I love most is how it fills the house with that warm citrusy scent while it bakes. Hang it in the window, wrap it around a tree, or tuck a few slices into gifts. It’s one of those projects that feels just as cozy in summer as it does in December.
Traditional Mulled Wassail Recipe
This traditional mulled wassail is one of those recipes that turns your whole house into a holiday hug. With apple cider, citrus slices, and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, it simmers away on the stove and fills every corner of the kitchen with the smell of Christmas.
Even in July, there’s something so comforting about a mug of this on a rainy summer evening—or sipped slowly on the porch as the sun sets. It’s simple to make, totally customizable, and a beautiful way to bring a little seasonal warmth into the everyday.
Cheerful Ideas from Gathered in the Kitchen
Next, I’m excited to share a few festive favorites from my friend Stephanie over at Gathered in the Kitchen. Her blog is full of heartwarming recipes, fun DIYs, and family-centered projects that feel like they came straight out of a small-town holiday fair. Stephanie has a knack for making everyday moments special, and her Christmas posts are no exception.
She brings a sweet, nostalgic charm to everything she does—whether it’s baking up a batch of gingerbread bars or crafting homemade ornaments with the kids. These ideas are simple, approachable, and perfect for adding a little joy to your Christmas in July celebration.
Christmas Popcorn Balls
These Christmas popcorn balls are the kind of treat that brings back childhood memories—the sticky fingers, the sweet crunch, and the joy of wrapping them up to share with neighbors or friends. Stephanie’s recipe keeps it simple and fun, making it a perfect activity to do with kids or grandkids on a slow afternoon.
They’re also a great make-ahead snack for movie nights or holiday parties. You can dress them up with festive sprinkles or keep them classic. Either way, they’re a cheerful little nod to old-fashioned holiday treats, and so easy to enjoy any time of year.
Gingerbread Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These gingerbread bars are soft, spiced, and topped with the dreamiest cream cheese frosting. They have all the classic holiday flavors—molasses, cinnamon, ginger—but in a bar form that’s quick to bake and easy to serve. Stephanie’s recipe is perfect for when you want the taste of Christmas without spending hours in the kitchen.
They’re a great make-ahead treat for gatherings or just to have on hand with a cup of coffee. I also love how they work just as well in July as they do in December—sweet and cozy, but not too heavy. A perfect blend of comfort and ease.
DIY Wooden Slice Ornaments
These wood slice ornaments are such a charming and simple craft—one of those projects that looks rustic and beautiful without needing a lot of supplies or fuss. Stephanie walks you through how to create them step-by-step, and the best part is how customizable they are. Paint them, stencil them, write names or holiday sayings—whatever feels right for your tree or gift list.
They’re a great project to tackle in July while the weather’s nice and the pace is slower. Make a few now, tuck them away for later, or even use them as handmade gift tags come December. It’s the kind of craft that makes you feel productive and creative, without needing to run to the store or clear off a whole afternoon.
Closing Thoughts from the Homestead
Celebrating Christmas in July doesn’t have to be fancy. Sometimes, it’s just playing carols while baking or hanging a dried orange garland in the window. It’s about slowing down and finding the joy that’s always right in front of us.
If you try any of these recipes or crafts, I’d love to see! Leave a comment below or tag me over on Instagram.
And if you’re feeling inspired, here are a few more cozy ideas:
