Christmas fanatics who just can't get enough of the holiday during December can get in the spirit twice a year by throwing a Christmas in July party! While everyone else is holding luaus, barbeques, and pool parties, YOUR summer get-together will definitely be remembered for its distinctive and unexpected Christmas theme. Dust of your Santa Costume and throw a Christmas in July party. Here’s what to do :

• Create instant invitations by digging out that old box of Christmas cards. On the inside blank panel, neatly write your party details such as time-date-place for a no-stress Christmas invitation. If you're handy with a computer and printer, type the information once, then print it out on blank paper and glue into the Christmas card. Gather bored kids on summer break to help with the glue job. They can even get creative and add Christmas stickers and glitter. If July 25 falls on a weekend, throw your party on that date!
• Get those stored boxes of Christmas decorations out of the basement and presto, you have instant atmosphere! You don't need to go as "overboard" now with decorating like you might during December, but if you have an artificial tree and truly enjoy decorating it, then go for it now. Otherwise, just hang some garland and lights, set out your Christmas village or collectible figurines, and add a few silk poinsettias and fake snow on counters and tables. Even if you decorate half as much now as you normally would in the winter, you'll put everyone in the spirit of the season. Don’t forget the Christmas music!

• A gift exchange is a novel idea this time of year. Guests can each bring a $5 gift to swap with other party-goers— wrapped in Christmas paper, of course!
• Serve Christmas cookies, eggnog, and peppermint-flavored goodies. No need for a big meal , but won't it be fun to make your favorite Christmas cookie or holiday punch recipes in July?! If the weather is just too hot to bake, order a cake from your local bakery. They will get a kick out of decorating it with Christmas motifs out of season.
• Get your Santa Suit and Mrs. Claus outfit and elf costumes out of the closet (or order online now) and dress appropriately for your party. Santa's arrival will be a big hit, especially if he passes out  a small wrapped present to each party guest that sits on his lap (ideas include lottery or movie tickets, coffee mugs, small denomination gift cards).

Go ahead— plan for a cool Yule in July. Your party guests will remember it long after the last bite of Christmas fudge is eaten… and don't be surprised if they want you to throw another one next year. And just think how much extra use your Santa Claus Costume is getting— what a bargain ! Ho Ho Ho !

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