Christmas in July is an unofficial holiday. The term originated from the fact that in the southern hemisphere, Christmas is actually celebrated in the summer. Residents from that area throw Christmas celebrations in July, as that is the peak month of their winter season. With so much to do in so little time, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to celebrate Christmas in July across the United States. If travel isn’t part of the plan this year, then you’ll have time to plan for next.

For most Americans, Christmas in July is an opportunity to escape the heat and have a little fun. Many department stores and online retailers host Christmas in July sales, including Treetopia.

The Hallmark Channel airs all your favorite holiday movies, and many places in the U.S. throw huge celebrations.

There are dozens of cities boasting holiday-themed names. As you might imagine, many of these places host celebratory Christmas in July events.

1. Oceanside, CA

Drawing thousands of people each year, the annual shopping extravaganza offers handmade arts and craft items made by over 100 artisans. The Christmas in July artisan festival also includes a bake sale, rummage sale, children’s activity area, and live entertainment.

2. Phoenix, AZ

Temperatures may be heating up, but nothing can stop Phoenix Zoo from hosting their Winter in July event. The number of attendees reaches over 7,000 participants, and they ship in more than 41 tons of snow.

3. North Pole, AK

When in Alaska, you have to hit up the North Pole! Visit Santa Claus House for an amazing assortment of classic toys, gifts, and collectibles. Be sure to snap a photo with the world’s largest Santa that stands 50 feet tall.

4. Dallas, TX

Break out your festive wear for Bishop Arts District‘s annual Christmas in July. They’ve prepared a summer snow storm, an ice skating rink, holiday treats, and live entertainment featuring iconic Christmas characters for the whole family to enjoy. Here’s their event poster from a few years back.

5. Frankenmuth, MI

For those closer to Michigan, shoppers can admire more than 300 Christmas trees on the sales floor of the world’s largest Christmas store in Frankenmuth. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is the size of one and a half football fields with lots and lots of opportunities for photo ops.

6. East Dundee, IL

Having first opened back in 1959, Santa’s Village is an East Dundee institution. Prepare the family for a full day of fun and excitement with rides, a petting zoo, animal encounters, and live daily shows.

7. Santa Claus, IN

If you’ve ever needed an excuse to visit a theme park, now’s your chance. Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indianapolis, is the nation’s first Christmassy theme park and has twice been named the Nation’s Top Value Theme Park by Consumer’s Digest.

8. North Pole, NY

This Christmas in July, why not check out Santa’s Workshop theme park in North Pole, New York.

9. Chalfont, PA

Experience an indoor snow storm, singing reindeer, and candy cane flavored ice cream at the Byer’s Choice Annual Christmas in July Festival. Check out their Instagram post from 2017.

10. West Jefferson, NC

West Jefferson, North Carolina hosts an annual Christmas in July festival that draws thousands of guests each summer with arts & crafts booths, food vendors, and street performers. They’re expecting even more attendees this year, as they celebrate their 32nd consecutive event.

Tip: If traveling isn’t in the cards for you this summer, swap your traditional BBQ for a Christmas in July- themed house party. Check out our post on how to throw an epic one. Need more tree-decorating ideas? Head on over to this post on summer tree decorating for inspiration.

This month is the perfect time to celebrate your favorite time of the year twice! If you’ve never celebrated this festive holiday before, now’s the time! Merry Christmas in July!