Celebrate the Season at Home: Epic Backyard Ideas for Christmas and New Years in Perth

Perth, with its stunning summer weather, long sunny days, and balmy nights, is the perfect place to celebrate the festive season and ring in the New Year. It's time to enjoy the fruits of your labour and celebrate all the hard work you've put into your garden or backyard this year! From laid-back garden parties to adventurous DIY projects, here are some ideas to make the most of the Christmas and New Year’s season.

1. Backyard BBQ or Picnic Feast

Perth is known for its beautiful weather in December and January, making it the ideal time to host an outdoor BBQ or picnic. Fire up the grill and serve up your favourite Aussie BBQ classics like sausages, steaks, and seafood. Add a local touch with fresh produce from local farmers’ markets. It's the perfect place to pick up everything from fresh fruit to artisanal cheeses.

For a more laid-back vibe, set up a picnic in your garden with a blanket, string lights, and a spread of fresh salads, cheeses, and cold meats. You could even create a DIY drinks station with refreshing cocktails or mocktails made with native Australian ingredients like finger lime or Wattleseed.

Tip: Set up a shaded area with umbrellas or gazebos to keep cool during the heat of the day!

2. Outdoor Movie Night

Why not transform your backyard into an outdoor cinema? With a simple projector, a white sheet or screen, and some cozy seating, you can host a Christmas or New Year’s movie night under the stars. Get comfy with outdoor bean bags, rugs, or even deck chairs, and let the magic of classic holiday films like Home Alone or The Grinch take you into the festive spirit.

Pair the movie night with a popcorn machine, fairy lights, and even a hot chocolate station for those cooler nights.

Tip: If you have kids, set up a second movie area for family-friendly flicks, while the adults enjoy their own choice of films or New Year’s Eve countdown!

3. Backyard Camping & Stargazing

For a more relaxed and adventurous experience, try setting up a backyard camping area. Pitch a tent or lay out a few blankets under the stars and get cozy with your loved ones. Bring out the s’mores ingredients for a nostalgic treat, and enjoy a few board games or storytelling around a fire pit.

The Perth night skies are perfect for stargazing, especially during the summer months. Grab a telescope or use a stargazing app to spot constellations like the Southern Cross. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a meteor shower or a glimpse of the Milky Way.

4. Water Fun: Pool Games or Backyard Sprinkler

Nothing beats the summer heat in Perth like a splash of water fun. If you have a pool, host a pool party with floaties, poolside snacks, and cool drinks. Organise some pool games such as volleyball or water polo for a competitive yet relaxing day in the water.

Alternatively, set up a backyard sprinkler or slip ‘n slide for kids and adults alike to cool off. You could even get creative and turn it into a mini water park with inflatable slides or a bubble machine.

5. New Year’s Eve Countdown Party

Perth is known for its vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations, but you can easily recreate the magic right in your backyard. Set up a countdown party with a large screen or speakers to tune into the fireworks shows at Elizabeth Quay.

For an extra fun twist, you could create a “Resolution Wall” where guests write down their New Year’s resolutions on cards and pin them up for everyone to see. It’s a great way to start the year with positivity and shared goals.

Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner, ringing in the New Year, or simply enjoying the laid-back summer vibes, Perth’s warm climate offers a fantastic backdrop for celebrating the holiday season at home. With the right mix of creativity, relaxation, and fun, your backyard or garden can become the perfect venue for unforgettable moments with family and friends.

So gather your loved ones, fire up the BBQ, decorate your space, and let the celebrations begin in your own backyard this festive season! And from all of us at Little Loads; we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!