Explore Christmas Golf Traditions Around the World

The Origins of Christmas Day Golf: Scotland's Historic Tradition

The earliest documented instances of organized Christmas golf appear in Scottish newspapers from the 1870s and 1880s, describing informal competitions held at various clubs throughout the country. Scotland, widely recognized as the birthplace of golf, naturally became the cradle of Christmas golf traditions. Scotland has 587 courses, the most courses per head of any country, with the majority being in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

The tradition emerged from Scotland's unique cultural context. Scottish Presbyterian traditions emphasized the religious significance of Christmas while maintaining a more restrained approach to celebration compared to the elaborate festivities common in England and other parts of Europe. This created space for secular activities like golf without conflicting with the day's spiritual significance.

The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, golf's most prestigious institution, played a significant role in legitimizing Christmas golf through its own informal traditions. Members regularly played informal rounds on December 25th, and these games gradually became an accepted part of the club's culture. The participation of prominent golfers helped establish Christmas Day golf as a respectable activity rather than a frivolous distraction from holiday observance.

Modern Scottish golfers continue this historic tradition, though Boxing Day is not classified as an official bank holiday in Scotland, leading to a tapestry of experiences that varies by local custom and business operations. Many Scottish golf courses remain accessible during the holiday season, particularly on Boxing Day, when families and friends often gather for festive rounds amid the country's dramatic winter landscapes.

The tradition of burning a yule log and gathering around fires for good luck complements the golfing tradition. The practice of burning a hardwood "yule log", came from the Vikings, and those who sit around this fire will have good luck and prosperity in the year to come.

Australia: Summer Christmas Golf at Its Finest

For golfers in the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas Day arrives at the height of summer, creating ideal conditions for outdoor recreation and transforming Christmas golf from a test of dedication against harsh weather into a celebration of perfect playing conditions and extended daylight hours, much like the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend. Australia leads the world in Christmas golf participation, with hundreds of thousands of golfers taking to courses across the continent on December 25th.

The tradition is so deeply embedded in Australian culture that many golf courses report their highest attendance figures of the year on Christmas Day, with some clubs hosting multiple tournaments and events to accommodate demand, reminiscent of how many have spent the majority of their life celebrating this day on the course. This makes Christmas one of the busiest days on the Australian golfing calendar.

The Australian Christmas golf experience typically begins early in the morning, taking advantage of cooler temperatures and the long summer daylight hours that extend well into the evening. Many clubs organize shotgun starts to accommodate large fields, while others run continuous tee times throughout the day, allowing for a relaxing pace on the course.

One of the most distinctive aspects of Australian Christmas golf is the integration of traditional holiday elements with the game itself - players often wear Santa hats, Christmas-themed golf attire, or even full holiday costumes while playing. Some tournaments include special rules that incorporate Christmas themes, such as bonus points for hitting targets decorated with holiday symbols or prizes for the most creative holiday golf outfit.

Many clubs organize elaborate post-round celebrations that include traditional Christmas meals, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities that allow non-playing family members to participate in the festivities. These events often serve as major fundraisers for local charities, combining holiday celebrations with community service.

Australian golfers typically enjoy fresh seafood, cold ham, and the famous pavlova dessert after their rounds. Instead of hot roasts and steaming puddings, food at Christmas in Australia is fresh, chilled, and summer-friendly, with prawns, oysters, and seafood platters taking center stage.

United States: Regional Christmas Golf Variations

The United States showcases diverse Christmas golf traditions influenced by regional climates and local customs. In warmer destinations like Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Christmas Day golf has become a cherished tradition.

Azalea Sands, Beachwood, and Eagle Nest Golf Clubs are open for limited tee times, allowing locals and visitors to enjoy a festive round of golf. The region boasts over 90 golf courses along the Grand Strand, making it one of the premier golf destinations in America.

A particularly heartwarming tradition exists at Myrtlewood Golf Club, where the golf shop and restaurant aren't technically open on Christmas, but the gates are left open, and the courses are available for free for anyone who wants to walk - it's been a holiday tradition for more than 30 years. This generous gesture embodies the spirit of giving during the festive season.

In Palm Desert and other Southern California locations, the backdrop of the San Jacinto mountain range is a major contributor to the atmosphere, and these mountains won't have snow-capped peaks like you'd find in the Rockies. The mild winter weather creates perfect conditions for Christmas golf, allowing golfers to test new clubs received as gifts while enjoying stunning scenery.

Many American golfers use Christmas golf as an opportunity to escape crowded households temporarily, test new golf equipment received as gifts, or bond with family members on the course. The tradition appeals to those seeking fresh air and exercise between open presents and Christmas dinner.

Perhaps you got a new set of irons from your family, maybe a new driver or putter - you can't wait to get out there and see if your new yard club is going to add distance, fly straight, or help you keep it out of the rough. This excitement drives many American golfers to golf courses on December 25th, making it a day to celebrate both the holiday and new golf equipment.

Japan: Ceremonial Christmas Golf Celebrations

Japan has developed one of the most distinctive and elaborate Christmas golf cultures in the world, reflecting the country's unique relationship with both golf and Western holidays. Japanese Christmas golf often emphasizes precision, ceremony, and group harmony in ways that reflect broader Japanese cultural values.

Many Japanese golf clubs organize Christmas events that include traditional elements such as group photographs, ceremonial first tees, and elaborate post-round celebrations that honor both participants and the game itself. This approach demonstrates how golf traditions can seamlessly integrate with local cultural practices.

While golf provides recreation for some Japanese golfers, Christmas is the time for friends and couples to have parties, make plans to meet up for dinner, and celebrate as much as they can. The day is celebrated more as a romantic holiday than a family gathering.

Japanese golf clubs might feature spectacular illuminations during the holiday season. Shopping malls, restaurants, and public areas feature an incredible display of lights that makes all passersby really get into the Christmas mood. These lighting displays often extend to golf courses and clubhouses, creating a magical atmosphere for holiday golf.

Despite all the Christmas celebrations, less than two percent of Japan's population identifies as Christian, so for most people, Christmas has absolutely nothing to do with religious observance. This secular approach allows Japanese golfers to create their own meaningful Christmas traditions centered around the sport they love.

New Zealand: Scenic Summer Golf Paradise

New Zealand has developed its own distinctive Christmas golf traditions that reflect the country's unique geography and cultural identity, with courses ranging from coastal links to mountain layouts. The combination of stunning landscapes and ideal summer weather makes Christmas Day particularly special for Kiwi golfers.

Many New Zealand golfers consider Christmas Day rounds to be among the most awesome golf of the year, not just for the holiday significance but for the spectacular natural settings that are enhanced by the clear summer light. From beachside courses to mountain layouts, the variety of playing conditions ensures every golfer finds their perfect festive round.

New Zealand's Christmas golf often emphasizes family participation, with multiple generations playing together for a couple hours. The relaxed atmosphere and spectacular scenery create ideal conditions for introducing younger family members to the game while maintaining competitive elements for serious players.

Many New Zealand golf courses organize special family tournaments and charity events during the Christmas period, combining sport with community engagement. These events often include prizes for various skill levels, ensuring everyone from beginners to low-handicap players can enjoy the celebration.

United Kingdom and Ireland: Traditional Winter Golf

While many UK golf courses close on Christmas Day, Boxing Day sees many courses reopening, particularly in England, where the day is recognized as a bank holiday. This creates a fantastic idea and opportunity for golfers to escape post-Christmas gatherings and enjoy the fresh air on the course.

Hamilton Golf Club in Scotland welcomes members and visitors on Christmas Day, though buggies aren't allowed and the Pro Shop remains closed. This represents the dedication of British and Irish golfers who brave often challenging winter conditions to maintain their holiday golf traditions.

British and Irish Christmas golf presents unique challenges compared to warmer destinations. Golfers must contend with short daylight hours, cold temperatures, and often wet conditions, especially when the season shifts in April. However, these challenges create a sense of camaraderie among participants and add to the memorable nature of festive rounds.

Many UK golf clubs organize special competitions during the Christmas period, often incorporating handicap adjustments and unique formats to encourage participation despite challenging conditions, which is a fun reason to join in. The traditional post-round gathering in the clubhouse becomes especially important, offering warmth, food, and fellowship after battling the elements.

Barnham Broom is home to not one but two pristine 18-hole golf courses, with facilities including a Pro Shop, grass driving range, and lively sports bar. Many historic British golf courses maintain their charm during the holiday season, decorated with subtle festive touches that honor both tradition and celebration.

Spain and Portugal: Mediterranean Christmas Golf

The Iberian Peninsula offers exceptional Christmas golf opportunities thanks to mild winter climates. Sotogrande in Spain has welcomed professional golfers including Roberto de Vicenzo, Sergio García, and Padraig Harrington over the years. The course blends perfectly with natural surroundings, offering ideal conditions during the festive season.

Portugal's Algarve region ranks among Europe's premier winter golf destinations. Many Portuguese golf courses remain busy throughout December, attracting golfers from colder European countries seeking sunshine and excellent playing conditions. The region combines world-class courses with beautiful coastal scenery and mild temperatures.

Spanish and Portuguese golf resorts often organize special Christmas tournaments and New Year celebrations, creating festive atmospheres that blend local traditions with international golf culture. Many resorts offer attractive packages during the holiday period, including accommodation, golf, and traditional holiday meals.

South Africa: Southern Hemisphere Christmas Golf

The growth of golf in Southern Hemisphere countries, including Chile, Brazil, and various Pacific Island nations has led to the development of new Christmas golf traditions that reflect local cultures. South Africa stands out with its world-class courses and summer Christmas weather.

South African Christmas golf benefits from the country's exceptional climate and stunning golf course designs. From coastal courses with ocean views to inland layouts featuring dramatic elevation changes, golfers enjoy diverse experiences during the festive season.

Many South African golf clubs emphasize charitable giving during Christmas, organizing fundraising tournaments that support local communities. This aligns with the broader tradition of using Christmas golf as an opportunity for social good while enjoying the sport.

Caribbean and Tropical Destinations: Paradise Golf

Kiawah's festive programme is filled with exciting events, like a grand Christmas lunch, ornament workshops, festivals, entertainment, and so much more, ensuring you and your entire family will have fun at Kiawah Resort over the festive season. The resort offers multiple championship courses with varying challenges and stunning views.

The Heritage Golf Club in the Bel Ombre Territory offers a well-designed 18-hole golf course surrounded by lush natural beauty, voted the Indian Ocean's Best Golf Course for many years. These tropical destinations provide ultimate luxury Christmas golf experiences.

Kuredu Resort in the Maldives treats guests to warm weather, turquoise waters, and beaches surrounded by palm trees, known for its incredible golf course with plenty of shaded areas to keep you cool. These tropical paradises offer unforgettable holiday golf combined with beach relaxation.

Tropical golf resorts excel at creating comprehensive Christmas experiences beyond golf. Many offer special holiday menus, spa treatments, water sports, and children's activities, ensuring non-golfing family members enjoy the vacation equally. Evening entertainment often includes live music, themed dinners, and New Year celebrations.

The Evolution of Christmas Golf Through History

As golf spread throughout the British Empire during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Christmas golf traditions traveled with British expatriates and colonial administrators who established golf clubs in far-flung corners of the world. This global spread planted the seeds for diverse Christmas golf traditions worldwide.

The two World Wars significantly impacted Christmas golf traditions, as many courses were requisitioned for military use and golfers were deployed to various theaters of conflict. However, these disruptions also led to poignant stories of soldiers finding ways to play improvised games even in challenging circumstances.

Today's Christmas golf has evolved into a sophisticated blend of sport, charity, family bonding, and cultural celebration, creating memorable family experiences. The globalization of golf has led to increasing cross-cultural exchange in Christmas golf traditions, with clubs and golfers sharing ideas and practices across national boundaries.

Christmas Golf Tournaments and Competitions

One of the most remarkable aspects of Christmas golf traditions worldwide is how they have evolved to incorporate charitable giving and community service, transforming what could be purely recreational activities into meaningful contributions to social welfare. December 25th has become one of the most important fundraising days in the golf calendar.

The global economic impact of Christmas charity golf is substantial, with millions of dollars raised annually for causes ranging from local community needs to international humanitarian efforts. This demonstrates golf's significant potential as a force for positive social change.

Christmas golf tournaments employ various formats to encourage participation and enjoyment:

• Scramble formats where teams work together, perfect for mixed-ability groups

• Best ball competitions that reward individual excellence within team play

• Stableford scoring that reduces pressure while maintaining competitive elements

• Novelty competitions with prizes for longest drive, closest to the pin, and most festive attire

• Father-son and family team events that strengthen bonds across generations

Many Christmas tournaments incorporate festive elements into gameplay. Some courses designate special Christmas-themed targets on fairways or greens, offering bonus points or prizes for hitting them, but the only thing that stands out is how these themes elevate the entire golfing experience. Others create "naughty or nice" scoring systems where specific shots earn or lose holiday points.

Prize categories often extend beyond traditional golf awards to include:

• Most festive golf outfit or costume

• Best-decorated golf cart

• Most creative golf gift exchange

• Holiday spirit awards for sportsmanship

• Charitable contribution recognition

Planning Your Christmas Golf Getaway

When planning a Christmas golf trip, consider these factors:

Climate Preferences: Do you prefer summer sunshine like Australia and South Africa, or mild winter conditions in the Mediterranean? Perhaps tropical paradise golf in the Caribbean appeals to your group?

Course Availability: Research which golf courses remain open during the holiday period. Many close Christmas Day but reopen Boxing Day, while others maintain full operations throughout, especially if you're dealing with a stash of AA batteries that are needed for holiday gadgets.

Family Accommodation: If traveling with non-golfing family members, ensure your destination offers diverse activities and entertainment. Resorts typically provide the most comprehensive options.

Budget Considerations: Christmas golf packages vary significantly in price. Warm-weather destinations often command premium rates during peak season, while cooler regions may offer attractive deals.

Early Reservation: Popular Christmas golf destinations book months in advance. Start planning in summer or early fall for the best availability and rates.

Package Deals: Many resorts offer stay-and-play packages that bundle accommodation, golf, meals, and activities at discounted rates. These often provide better value than booking components separately.

Flexible Dates: If possible, consider playing Boxing Day rather than Christmas Day, as more courses operate with full services and you may find better rates.

Group Bookings: Traveling with a foursome or larger group? Negotiate group rates with resorts and courses, particularly for charity events or corporate outings.

Golf Equipment Considerations:

• -Bring your favorite clubs or test new equipment received as gifts

• -Pack for variable weather: layering options for cool mornings warming to pleasant afternoons

• -Don't forget rain gear, even in typically dry destinations

• -Comfortable golf shoes appropriate for local course conditions, along with a brand new range finder, can enhance your game this holiday season.

Festive Touches:

• -Christmas-themed golf attire, like Santa hats or holiday sweaters

  -Novelty golf balls with holiday designs

• -Small gifts for playing partners or tournament prizes

• -A camera or smartphone for capturing memorable moments

Technology and Modern Christmas Golf

Modern technology has transformed Christmas golf experiences, and the digital age has transformed Christmas golf traditions in ways that would leave you dreaming about the rest of the day, which would have been unimaginable to the Scottish golfers who first played on December 25th more than a century ago.

Apps like Hole19 provide comprehensive course information, GPS yardages, score tracking, and statistics analysis that enhance your Christmas round. The app's features help golfers of all abilities play better and enjoy the game more, whether on familiar home courses or exploring new destinations during holiday travel.

Social media has revolutionized how Christmas golf experiences are shared and celebrated, revving up the Christmas spirit, with platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter providing global audiences for holiday golf adventures. Golfers worldwide share their festive rounds, creating inspiration and community across borders.

Digital platforms simplify booking tee times for Christmas golf, even at courses halfway around the world. Many golf courses now offer online reservation systems, real-time availability, and instant confirmation from the golf gods, making it easier than ever to plan holiday golf adventures.

Golf Gifts and Christmas Traditions

The holiday season brings excitement for golfers anticipating new equipment and accessories, including a new toy within popular golf gifts. Popular golf gifts include:

Performance Equipment:

• - Latest drivers and fairway woods promising more distance

• - New iron sets with improved forgiveness

• - High-tech putters with alignment aids

• - Premium golf balls for better feel and control

Technology and Training Aids:

• - GPS watches and rangefinders for accurate yardages

• - Launch monitors for swing analysis

• - Practice nets and mats for home improvement

• - Swing trainers and alignment tools

Apparel and Accessories:

• - Performance golf shirts and pants

• - Weather-appropriate outerwear

• - Quality golf shoes for comfort and stability

• - Stylish golf bags and headcovers

Experience Gifts:

• - Golf lessons with PGA professionals

• - Golf course memberships or season passes

• - Golf vacation packages to dream destinations

• - Tournament entries and playing opportunities

One of the greatest pleasures of Christmas golf involves testing newly received equipment. The anticipation of trying a new driver or putter adds excitement to the round, and the festive atmosphere makes any result feel special. Many golfers plan Christmas Day rounds specifically to debut their new clubs, and then the itch sets in.

Family Golf Traditions at Christmas

Christmas provides perfect opportunities to introduce younger family members to golf. Many courses offer junior clinics or family-friendly events during the holiday period. The relaxed atmosphere and festive spirit create ideal conditions for learning and enjoying a delicious feast.

Parents can make Christmas golf special for children by:

• Setting up mini-golf courses at home using holiday decorations

• Creating scavenger hunts on the golf course

• Organizing family putting competitions with small prizes, ensuring that family bonding does not come to a screeching halt.

• Teaching basic golf etiquette in a fun, low-pressure environment

• Celebrating every success, regardless of score

Christmas golf excels at bringing together multiple generations. Grandparents, parents, and children playing together create lasting memories and even strengthen family bonds. However, just like when a new toy requires AAA batteries, ensuring everyone is equipped to enjoy the game is essential. Many golf courses accommodate mixed-ability groups through forward tees, modified rules, and supportive atmospheres.

The combination of holiday magic and the magic of Christmas golf creates particularly memorable experiences. Years later, families remember the year Dad hit his first hole-in-one on Christmas Day, or when it snowed during their festive round, or when three generations played together for the first time.

The Future of Christmas Golf Traditions

These emerging traditions demonstrate the continued global expansion of Christmas golf and its ability to adapt to different cultural contexts. As golf grows in Asia, South America, and Africa, new Christmas golf traditions will emerge, enriching the global tapestry of holiday golf.

Modern Christmas golf increasingly emphasizes environmental sustainability. Many golf courses implement eco-friendly practices during the holiday season, from water conservation to wildlife habitat preservation. Christmas tournaments often support environmental charities, combining sport with ecological stewardship.

The future of Christmas golf focuses on inclusivity, ensuring golfers of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds feel welcome. Adaptive golf programs, affordable options, and family-friendly formats make holiday golf accessible to broader audiences.

Future Christmas golf experiences will likely incorporate advanced technologies like augmented reality course features, AI-powered coaching, enhanced social connectivity, and even opportunities to unwind with a new video game. However, the integration of technology with traditional Christmas golf has generally enhanced rather than replaced the human elements that make these events special.

Celebrating Christmas Golf with Hole19

Whether you're playing on familiar home courses or exploring new destinations during the holiday season, the Hole19 app enhances every aspect of your Christmas golf. Track your scores, analyze statistics, and share achievements with the global Hole19 community.

The app provides:

• Detailed course maps and GPS for thousands of courses worldwide

• Comprehensive score tracking and handicap management

• Performance analytics to identify improvement areas

• Social features for connecting with fellow golfers

• Tournament organization tools for Christmas competitions

Between rounds, use CORE Golf to improve your skills through structured practice. The app's performance-focused approach helps you:

• Work on specific game areas needing improvement

• Follow result-oriented drills designed by professionals

• Track practice progress and see measurable results

• Prepare for your next Christmas tournament or friendly match

The Hole19 community welcomes your Christmas golf stories and photos. Share your festive rounds, tournament victories, memorable moments, and holiday golf adventures. Connect with golfers worldwide who share your passion for combining golf with Christmas celebrations.

The Universal Appeal of Christmas Golf

As we reflect on the global phenomenon of Christmas Day golf, it becomes clear that this tradition represents a great opportunity for something far more significant than simply playing a round of golf on a holiday. Christmas golf embodies universal human desires for connection, tradition, and meaning that transcend cultural boundaries and unite golfers across continents, climates, and circumstances.

From the historic links of Scotland, where the tradition began, to the sun-soaked courses of Australia, from ceremonial Japanese celebrations to casual American family rounds, Christmas golf demonstrates the game's remarkable adaptability and universal appeal. In this blog, we’ll explore how each culture brings unique elements to the tradition while maintaining the core values of sportsmanship, community, and joy that define golf at its best.

Whether you're planning your first Christmas golf experience or continuing a decades-long family tradition, the combination of holiday spirit and golf creates something truly special, especially after dealing with mall traffic. The courses may vary from windswept Scottish links to tropical island paradises, the weather from snowy winters to blazing summers, but the fundamental joy of sharing golf with friends and family during the festive season remains constant.

This Christmas, consider starting your own golf tradition as a better way to celebrate. Book a tee time at a local course, organize a family scramble, or plan a golf vacation to an exotic destination. Test those new clubs, compete for bragging rights, support charitable causes, or simply enjoy the peace and beauty of a course decorated with holiday cheer. However you choose to celebrate, know that you're participating in a global tradition that connects golfers worldwide in their shared love of the game.

May your Christmas drives be long and straight, your putts roll true, and your holiday golf create memories that last a lifetime. Here's to Christmas golf traditions around the world - may they continue to grow, evolve, and bring joy to golfers everywhere for generations to come.

Happy holidays and good golf from all of us at Hole19!