Another fabulous and sunny Australia Day is almost on our doorstep for 2015 – but how can you be sure you’re primed to enjoy the day?
1. Wear the Flag
Even if you’re not an Aussie citizen, it’s still a day to be proud and celebrate everything Aussie! Make sure you dress up in flag gear – whether it’s a t-shirt, a hat, a skirt or a some boardies (shorts). Draping a flag over your shoulders is acceptable, too.
2. Go Thong Crazy
Australia Day is not one for getting dressed up fancy – so make sure you grab and wear your best pair of thongs! If you happen to find a pair with the Aussie flag on them, go for it!
3. Eat a Meat Pie
It’s the iconic Aussie meal and whether you’re Aussie or simply in love with the Aussie culture, you should woof down a meat pie. Can’t get your hands on a pie? Other acceptable foods include:
- Sausage sizzles
- Sausage rolls (don’t forget the sauce!)
- Vegemite on toast
- Anzac biscuits
- Lamingtons
4. Be Sun Smart
Australian summers are notoriously hot and the sun here can be dangerous, so be sun smart if you’re outdoors:
- Wear a hat and a t-shirt that covers your shoulders
- Use sunscreen
- Wear sunglasses
- Stick to the shade where possible
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water!
5. Drink a Beer – An Aussie One!
Australians love a nice cold one on a hot day, so downing a beer on Australia Day if you can is a good move. Make sure it’s homebrewed though! Classics include VB, Tooheys and Fosters.
6. Catch Some Fireworks
Fireworks are bound to be bursting up in various locations on Australia Day around the country, so secure your spot and make sure you’re out and about to enjoy the night time show.
Depending on where you are, you’ll likely find fireworks around the water – on harbours and beaches, around the river – or in town parks and central town areas.
7. Enjoy the Music
Australia Day is rife with musical performances and concerts. So if you’ve got no other plans, aim to be part of the celebration by heading to one of the cool outdoor gigs around your town.
If you’re somewhere a little more remote, check out what live music is available in pubs or bars near you. If you’re at home, don’t forget to chuck on some Aussie hits!
8. Play a Game of Cricket
Cricket is our much-loved national sport and an Aussie backyard favourite, and setting yourself up for a game is a must. You can easily pick up cricket sets (even plastic ones) from a range of department, sporting or toy stores.
If worse comes to worst, just improvise! You can use almost anything as a bat and things like bins, sticks and even plastic bottles make great wickets.
9. Sing the National Anthem
Loud and clear! It’s a great thing to do if you’ve got a group of great mates around you – and you never know who might join in. Don’t know (or can’t remember) the words? Here’s the first verse:
Australians all let us rejoice,
For we are young and free;
We’ve golden soil and wealth for toil;
Our home is girt by sea;
Our land abounds in nature’s gifts
Of beauty rich and rare;
In history’s page, let every stage
Advance Australia Fair.
In joyful strains then let us sing,
Advance Australia Fair.
10. Plan Ahead
Australia Day is also a national public holiday down under, which can mean many of the shops and supermarkets will be shut.
If you’re holding a BBQ or get-together at your place (or a mate’s pad), make sure you plan ahead and do your shopping before the public holiday hits.
11. Organise an Aussie Trip!
What better way to appreciate Australia than to discover it even more!
Organising a getaway for the long weekend can be a great excuse for another holiday, so consider what lies within reach. Even if you only journey for 2 hours, you’ll find yourself discovering a whole new pocket of Australia – and loving every moment!
It’s never too late, though. If you’ve left your travel plans to the last minute, use the long weekend to organise another trip in the near future.
HAPPY AUSTRALIA DAY EVERYONE!