Australia Day is January 26 and commemorates the establishment of the first settlement at Port Jackson, Sydney, in 1788. The whole country celebrates, especially Sydney, to mark the beginning of British occupation of Australia. For all our American friends… it is like your 4th of July Independence Day celebrations!
Having lived on Sydney Harbor when we were in Australia, it was a fabulous day of picnics, boat races on the Harbor and fireworks at night. It is a public holiday and everyone enjoys celebrating surrounded by those they love.
As an Aussie living in the USA, it is one day I am definitely homesick however we have continued the tradition of hosting an annual Australia Day party in our home. This party has over 100 guests; we serve Aussie food, Aussie beer and wine, play Aussie music and bring the Aussie spirit to the winter (of course you know it is beautiful and warm Summer in the Southern Hemisphere….).
One of the aspects I enjoy most about this party is the ability to gather friends, colleagues, family (my American family) and clients all in one place to catch up. As January is SOOOOO cold where we live and most people hibernate, it is an excuse to get out, see others, connect, eat great food and have some fun.
Traditions are essential and help us stay connected to things that are important to us. What are your traditions? Do you celebrations unique to you, your family, your history? Can you find a way to incorporate them regularly?
While my friends make fun of my accent, the way I pronounce certain words and the phrases I use – you can be sure this little Aussie Sheila feels right at home and loves share just a little big of the Outback with our friends here!
Do you celebrate Australia Day? If so we’d love to hear your comments here on our blog.
Happy Australia Day to all my friends living around the globe
PS. No matter how often I hear the Peter Allen song ‘I still call Australia home’ – it makes me cry!
