Why Warmth Wins: Why Cold Christmases Are a Feeble Imitation to Celebrating in Summer.
Should we have gleaned anything from the influx 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 cold. Whatever!
The powers that be residing above the equator may have convinced the world, but that's only because they lack the innate knowledge we southern hemisphere folk possess: a sun-drenched Christmas is simply superior. This season is stressful enough – irrespective of temperature – but at least we don't have to battle seasonal depression on top of it all.
A Chilly Childhood
And this isn't just an empty claim. I spent my entire childhood enduring cold festive seasons. Despite my family originating in New Zealand, my father's career led to inevitable international moves. My younger years were scattered across the UK and the US, meaning every December brought dark skies by 4pm and a crisp sting on my cheeks. The sole silver lining? The fashion choices; bundling up is inherently stylish.
In all honesty, a cold Christmas has its appeal. It's time-honored, iconic, and the prospect of snow is undeniably enchanting. The cosy charm of a frosty gathering is hard to disregard. Yet, with my extended family on the other side of the world, I always felt I was lacking an authentic celebration that not even the richest 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 more family for the first time. With a bigger crowd to entertain, my father got experimental in the kitchen, crafting a heavily marinated vodka jelly that was famously strong. We all slept well that night.
This became our routine for years – sharing the day with family and friends, complete with water gun fights across the table. That was, until my parents answered the call of a new job and moved to a notoriously chilly part of northern England.
A Revelation in Reverse
Visiting them for Christmas after a long absence, I anticipated a wave of fond remembrance. Instead, I found myself missing everything that made a summer Christmas unique. Sipping sangria 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 cemented after my father passed away. My mother decided to return home to New Zealand. The first Christmas without him was incredibly tough, his loss palpable everywhere. Yet, being once again surrounded by family under the gentle heat of the summer sun alleviated the grief in profound ways.
Conflicting Celebrations
All this said, I readily admit to being a walking contradiction. This year, I'll be spending Christmas 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 little hold on me!
Still, I'm keen to return home for another New Year's Day under the bright southern sun. Knowing my family – including a newest member – will be nearby as we enter the new year fills me with a joy my younger self always yearned for. Not even the deepest powder can compare to that feeling.
