An Expat’s Xmas 2022 in Sydney

One can never get enough of the Christmas season and the joy it brings. From planning Christmas celebrations and get-togethers to having your fill of plum pudding and playing in the snow, there are plenty of things that make us anticipate the festival more than any other. But what if you’re in Sydney? Living in a city where Christmas is celebrated during the summer season can evoke mixed feelings in you, especially if you’re an expat in the city. It’s my fourth Christmas in Sydney and I've never been more excited. Although, I’ve learned a few off-the-textbook facts about how the season is celebrated in the city. For all those newbies in town, I hope you’d find this article helpful.

First things first, let’s get to the part where we plan our Christmas parties, celebrations or whatever. Sydney is a city known for its young and exuberant population, and their love for partying. Here are some things to keep in mind before you start planning for the upcoming Christmas party.

Planning ahead is as important as dreaming about it

Let’s be honest here, dreaming and merely talking about a party or a get together isn’t going to make it happen, but the planning is. But again, when I say ‘planning’, I mean planning ahead of time. The moment you type in those words ‘Christmas party venues’ on Google, believe me, you’re sure to be spoiled for choices. However, I have an amazing option that you can’t resist–the Christmas party harbour cruises on Sydney Harbour. As much as it goes without saying, Sydney Harbour is the most glamorous destination in the city and hosting a party here would be spectacular and unforgettable indeed. These cruises are often picked by corporates, families and friends who wish to host a grand celebration. The corporate Christmas party cruises in Sydney have been my favourite and I’ve always managed to find the best deals and offers when I book ahead of time. And that’s my first tip for you mates…booking ahead to avail the best cruise deals and offers.

Get your wardrobe summer-ready

I know you’re not ready for this. For some people, just the thought of a non-wintry Christmas might be uncomfortable. I was once a prejudiced soul too, dreading the arrival of a summer Christmas in Sydney. But here I am, totally in love with it and anticipating the festival just like any other Sydneysider. If you’re an expat from the western parts of the globe, then you better stock up on those summer clothes. Or if you’re from the tropical countries, I'm guessing you already know the drill. Summer in Sydney is when everyone heads to the beach, the hill stations, the countryside and attend the many summer festivals. If it’s your first time in Sydney, this is the time for you to get to know the city and its people. And, trust me, the city will have you smitten in no time!

Don’t forget to enjoy the famous Christmas dishes

In Sydney, the oddities of celebrating Christmas during the summer season also includes the variety of food eaten by Sydneysiders during the festival. The city’s multiculturalism has had a great influence over the food eaten during festivals too. I’ve had a few Christmas favourites that I’d like to suggest. Honey and clove-glazed ham and turkey, Sydney rock oysters, blue swimmer crabs, Antipasti, charcuterie and Australian cheese platters, sushi and sashimi and a lot of other hot and cold dishes.

So there you go! If you’re an expat celebrating your first-ever Christmas in Sydney, make sure you try to add these to your list for a hassle-free and unforgettable one.

Eliza is an ardent reader, passiontae traveller and a philathropist. Exceptionaly good at making children's stories and both personal and impersonal travel narratives.