Hello and welcome back to English with Ally!
I'm Ally, and you are listening to one of 24 episodes I'm making this December to explain different Christmas customs and give English language learners a little culture and a little listening practice.
Today we’re heading Down Under to explore how Christmas is celebrated in Australia and New Zealand. Santa in shades? You bet as the Southern hemisphere is full on summer for Christmas - completely different from my Northern experience.
Listen out for these words:
- Down Under - an informal term for Australia and sometimes New Zealand in included, too
- Aussies - (informal) Australians
- Kiwis - (informal) People from New Zealand
- Barbies (Australian slang)= barbecue – cooking food outdoors over a grill.
- Backyard - outdoor space at the back of the house
- To bloom - to flower
- Odd - strange
See if you can hear them in this episode.
First, let’s talk about the biggest difference: the season. In both Australia and New Zealand, Christmas falls in the middle of summer. That means no snow, no frosty windows — just sunshine, beaches and barbies! Instead of cozy fires, people often spend Christmas outdoors, enjoying the warm weather.
So, what does Christmas day look like? In Australia, a classic way to celebrate might include a barbecue in the backyard or even a picnic at the beach. Seafood is very popular—think prawns, oysters and fresh fish. And yes, some families still cook a roast turkey, even in the heat! Australians also love pavlova, a dessert made with meringue, cream and fresh fruit. Mmm delicious!
Now, in New Zealand, you’ll find many of the same traditions but there is a special native tree with bright red flowers that bloom in December, and this tree is often called New Zealand’s Christmas tree*. You’ll see it in decorations and even in their Christmas cards.
Both countries follow the usual gift-giving tradition, and Santa still wears his red suit—though sometimes you’ll see him in shorts and sunglasses for a local touch!
So, are traditions very different? Well, the core customs—family gatherings, gift exchanges, and festive meals—are still at the heart of Christmas down under. But perhaps what really stands out in Australia and New Zealand is how strongly the holiday is centred on family time. Many shops and businesses close completely, giving people the chance to be at home and celebrate with their loved ones.
Overall, the summer setting adds a relaxed, outdoor feel but the focus remains the same: coming together with family and friends to share the day.
Have you ever spent Christmas in the sun? I have once, it was odd to be on the beach sunbathing with Christmas decorations around. While it was fun to go for a swim after lunch, it just didn't feel like Christmas for me! If you have had an odd Christmas, let me know by emailing helloenglishwithally[at]gmail.com, I'd love to hear from you.
Thanks for listening to English with Ally! If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and subscribe for more cultural insights. Merry Christmas!
*It's the Pōhutukawa tree.
Learn the language, discover the culture.