Paraphrasing Totò and his famous poem La Livella, their tradition is not of visiting the cemetery, but of celebrating Christmas just as one would in December. Only here, we’re in Australia, and the seasons are reversed.
So, to enjoy a “winter Christmas” with cold weather, roasts and perhaps even warm panettone, people come together for “Christmas in July” surrounded by lights, laughter and a touch of European nostalgia that feels like home.
In Australia and other countries in the Southern Hemisphere, “Christmas in July” offers a chance to recreate the traditional December holiday atmosphere during the colder months, evoking the festive spirit typical of the Northern Hemisphere.
Last Sunday, the Masonic Hall in Concord West was filled with warmth and joy for the annual luncheon organised by the Lazio Noantri and Carpineto Association. Around 150 people took part in the event, which has been bringing the community a festive atmosphere for years.
Amid Christmas decorations, delicious food and music, guests enjoyed a day dedicated to socialising and good cheer.
As Rolando D’Arcangeli said during his speech: “Today we’re celebrating ‘Christmas in July’ together. Even though it’s the middle of the Australian winter, we bring a bit of the Christmas warmth that unites us in shared memories and rekindles the magic we feel every year. It’s a special moment to come together, share smiles and friendship and strengthen our community.”
Benito Berti, for his part, extended “a special thank you to the women of the association, who have dedicated their energy for years to making this day a success, preparing multi-course meals and ensuring everyone leaves with good memories”.
“The help of volunteers, the committee and of course all the participants is also invaluable, as their presence keeps our traditions alive.”
Behind the scenes of these community lunches is the tireless work of an extraordinary group of women who devote their time, energy and heart to the Lazio Noantri and Carpineto Association’s kitchen.
Ersilia Berti has been at the stove for about thirty years, Angela for fifteen, Daniela Iannello for seven and the “youngest” members - Tracey D’Arcangeli and Maria Pollicina - for about three years.
It’s a legacy passed down through generations. Fosca D’Arcangeli, wife of President Rolando and now 95 years of age, cooked for the association for over fifty years, and her sister Teresa, who passed away two years ago, helped right up until the end.
Each event requires near-military organisation consisting of a two-hour meeting to plan the menu, divide up tasks and do the shopping.
The day before the event, the team works at the community centre from eight in the morning until late afternoon amid laughter, chatter and a deep sense of camaraderie. On Sunday, the work starts early again: serving food, cleaning up and restoring order. It’s a quiet but essential commitment, keeping traditions alive with passion and teamwork.
The celebration wrapped up with toasts, laughter and the cheerful yet heartfelt wish of “Merry Christmas, even in July!”
