While folks in the Northern Hemisphere will be donning winter coats, making snow sculptures and drinking eggnog, South Africans will spend the festive season embracing the sunshine, building sandcastles and sipping cocktails. If you want to shake things up this holiday, a summer Christmas is the perfect excuse to celebrate the cool summer breeze.

Summer Christmas Ideas

Here’s all the inspiration you need to host a cool ‘Coastal Christmas’.

A Seafood Feast

Swap your traditional roasts for a dazzling seafood feast. Think succulent prawns with garlic butter and whole grilled fish drizzled with a zesty lemon herb seasoning. A side of crisp summer salads – perhaps a watermelon, feta, and mint combo or a zippy mango and avocado salsa – will add vibrant flavours to your table spread.  Seafood is also versatile, you could keep it Mediterranean-inspired with a Greek feast, go with Asian flavours or keep it local with a South African fish braai or seafood potjie.

Try this Prawn Saganaki or this Méthode Cap Classique Mussel Pot.

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Wines to Wow

A summer Christmas calls for chilled white wines that pair effortlessly with seafood. Sauvignon Blanc, with its crisp acidity and notes of citrus, is a natural match for shellfish. If you’re feeling adventurous, try an elegant Chenin Blanc or some Brut bubbles to complement those rich, buttery sauces. Rosé is another refreshing choice – its fruity profile and light body make it a versatile crowd-pleaser, especially with these summer desserts.

Try this Rose & Raspberry Pavlova paired with Graham Beck Brut Rosé, or this Frosé Raspberry Granita with Vanilla Ice Cream & Berries with De Grendel Rosé.

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Décor Inspired by the Coast

Channel beachy vibes with a tablescape of ocean blues and sandy neutrals. Use driftwood, shells, and coral as natural centrepieces, accented with sprigs of greenery. Linen napkins in soft seafoam hues and sparkling glassware tie the look together. String up fairy lights or decorate blue baubels for an ambient glow that echoes summer evenings by the sea.

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Dress Up

If you really want to make a fuss, send out themed e-invites and include a casual or smart formal dress code, depending on the theme everyone votes for and the overall vibe. Guests could wear ivory, blue hues, cream or beige neutral tones to match the décor. Plus, it gives everyone an excuse to wear their Sunday best, midweek.

Add festive sparkle to your table with these DIY Christmas crackers and this wreath.

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Embrace the Outdoors

Take the celebration al fresco! Whether setting up a beach picnic or hosting a garden soirée, create cosy spaces with blankets, cushions and low tables. Don’t forget to set up a hydration station with infused waters or signature summer cocktails.

Want more? Try our tips for hosting an outdoor summer Christmas celebration.