Every year, as the holiday season approaches, millions of people prepare to wrap up in warm clothing, enjoy the cozy fireplace, sip hot chocolate, and watch as the winter wonderland unfolds outside. But what about people who are experiencing relentless heat and sunshine instead of snowflakes? How can they get into the festive spirit?
This guide will help you create cozy and holiday-inspired atmospheres in the middle of a heatwave. Get excited for a unique, fun-filled, and unforgettable warm holiday season.
You’ll want to start with that shimmering centerpiece of many warm-weather homes — the swimming pool. A sunny holiday season gives you the opportunity to create your personal water-based winter wonderland.
Pool floats are an effective way to decorate your outdoor space. Snowflake-shaped inflatables, reindeer floats, or even a floating Santa can instantly add a touch of holiday spirit to your pool area.
Take your poolside holiday spirit up a notch by draping twinkling fairy lights around the pool. If you're a fan of evening parties, try floating candles in the pool. It's a simple and effective way to reflect the holiday spirit. This combination of pool floats and decorative lights gives your pool the visual thrill of a glistening ice rink, minus the chill.
Next, you’ll want to consider revisiting traditional holiday decor. Except this time, you're giving a tropical twist. While a pineapple might not replace your cherished Christmas tree, there's no harm in adding some tropical vibes to gel with the sunny weather outside. Mingle classic holly and ivy with striking tropical flowers for your festive garlands and wreaths.
How about swapping conventional Christmas lights with colorful paper lanterns? You’ll still get the warm glow that screams holiday spirit, but with added beachy vibes.
Also, for your holiday drink offerings, rather than hot ciders and cocoas, try iced teas and chilled cocktails that carry a hint of traditional holiday spices. These drinks will keep your guests refreshed while still sticking to the holiday flavor palette.
Embracing the heat for your holiday season means reinterpreting traditional necessities to fit your unique circumstances. It’s all about balancing the familiar with unexpected additions that capture the essence of a sunny holiday season.
Holiday outfits don't always have to be about knitted sweaters and woolen shawls. In sunnier climes, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen in festive colors can be your go-to options. Clothing with green, red, and gold hues that usually dominate the holiday season can be made more heat-friendly.
Accessorizing can also be seasonal, without adding to the heat. Think charm bracelets with holiday motifs, jingle bell earrings, or beachy Santa hats. Sandals or flip-flops could get the holiday treatment, too: With bright ribbons or glitter, your footwear can be all about the holiday spirit.
Revamping holiday culinary traditions is undoubtedly the tastiest part of a sunny holiday. Swap hearty, oven-baked meals with light, grilled ones. Barbecue can be a fantastic way to bring holiday cheer while embracing the heat.
Ditch the hot cocoa and bring out the ice-cream machine. You can easily make a Christmassy eggnog or peppermint ice cream. Tropical fruit salads featuring winter fruits like citrus and pomegranates can bring a zestiness to your holiday table.
Finally, offer a cool twist on traditional pies with chilled versions, such as lemon meringue or Key lime. Serve alongside frosty beverages, combining traditional holiday spices with tropical flavors to refresh your guests.
Keeping in line with embracing the warm weather, set up an outdoor cinema for a special holiday treat. Create a comfortable seating area with loungers and cushions. Use a projector to screen holiday classics on a white sheet or an outdoor wall, and don't forget the popcorn.
You can make new traditions by watching Home Alone or The Holiday under the stars with your loved ones — wrapped in the warmth of the holiday spirit. Lit lanterns or string lights can add to the cozy, festive atmosphere. This unique experience will undoubtedly add an unforgettable chapter to your sunny holiday celebrations.
Creating a cozy holiday atmosphere in a warm climate takes a good measure of creativity and a dash of counterintuitive thinking. Whether you're adorning your pool with holiday-themed floats, tweaking your outfit, or shifting your holiday menu, remember it's all about celebrating the season in a way that makes you feel festive, while staying comfortable.
The most important part of the holiday season is enjoying the time with loved ones, sharing joy, and creating memories. In the end, regardless of whether you're in a sunny or snowy place, the warmth of the holiday season comes from the cheer you’ll share with others.
