The festive season is here early, with Santa Radio returning to LiSTNR for the first-ever Christmas in July celebration.

While the tree might be packed away, the music doesn’t need to be. From modern classics by Mariah Carey, Michael Bublé and Kelly Clarkson to timeless favourites from Bing Crosby and Brenda Lee, Santa Radio has curated the ultimate soundtrack for a mid-year festive celebration.

Christmas in July does have special meaning in Australia, where the festive season’s traditional imagery of roaring fires, roast dinners, winter nights and cosy nostalgia actually feels appropriate. With ABS data showing almost one-third of Australia’s population was born overseas, including around 2.4 million people born in Europe or North America, Santa Radio’s mid-year return taps into a familiar feeling for those who once knew Christmas as a winter celebration.

Lindsay Harapa, LiSTNR Senior Music Director – Digital Radio, said:

“Last December, Santa Radio became LiSTNR’s most-streamed music station, and the response from listeners showed just how much Australians love embracing the festive spirit. Christmas in July has become part of the way many Australians celebrate winter, especially for those who grew up with Christmas as a cold-weather tradition. We thought, why wait another six months? Winter feels better with a little Christmas in July, and we’re excited to bring Santa Radio back for the very first time outside the traditional festive season. It’s all the Christmas music people love, without the December rush.”

Santa Claus, Head of Christmas Operations, said:

“I’d barely finished putting the sleigh in the garage when people started asking when Santa Radio would be back. Mrs Claus tells me it’s important to take a break, but I simply couldn’t ignore all the Christmas lovers who thought December was too far away. The elves have dusted off the tinsel, Rudolph’s polished his nose, and we’re delighted to celebrate Christmas in July with everyone across Australia. Ho ho ho!”

Listeners can stream Santa Radio exclusively on LiSTNR throughout July, with the station also available on Foxtel, bringing Christmas Hits and Festive Feels to homes across Australia.