What is Boxing Day and why is it celebrated the day after Christmas?

A day after Christmas, the biggest festival for Christians all over the world who celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and indulge in festive joy, festivities and gatherings, Boxing Day is about giving money, gifts and donations to the poor, in service positions or those in need. The day has now evolved to become part of extended Christmas celebrations, and many choose to shop for offers on the day. Boxing Day originated in the United Kingdom and is celebrated in several Commonwealth nations, including Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Here’s everything you want to know about the day and how it’s celebrated.

When is Boxing Day 2024?

Boxing Day is celebrated annually on 26 December, one day after Christmas on 25 December. This year it falls on a Thursday.

The story of the Second Christmas Day

The tradition of giving money and gifts to those in need or in service roles dates back to the Middle Ages and may have its roots in the late Roman and early Christian eras. During this time, alms boxes placed in churches were used to collect offerings linked to the Feast of Saint Stephen, which coincides with Boxing Day, Boxing Day. In some areas it was customary to open these alms boxes on Boxing Day and distribute the contents to the poor. In Britain, the tradition developed for craftsmen to collect “Christmas boxes” of money or gifts from customers as a token of appreciation for their services during the year, a practice noted in Samuel Pepys’s diary in 1663. Additionally, it was customary for servants from wealthy households to visit their families the day after Christmas and bring boxes from their employers filled with gifts, bonuses and leftover food.

There are two possible reasons for the day. While some believe that the name is derived from the opening of almshouses kept in churches for the collection of donations to help the poor and needy. Others believe it is related to the gift boxes given to employees or servants the day after Christmas to reward them for their efforts during the Christmas Day celebrations. They also got bonuses. On Boxing Day, employees were given the day off so they could relax and have their own party.
In modern times, bonuses and gifts are still given to employees, but before Christmas instead of the day after.

How to celebrate Boxing Day

Shopping

The festivities have evolved over time and the modern tradition is to shop and enjoy great discounts during this time. People flock to stores for discounts and deals, while others opt for online shopping.

Sporting event

In the UK, Boxing Day is famous for Premier League football matches. In Australia, the Boxing Day Test Match is a major sporting event played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Horse racing is another popular Boxing Day activity in some countries.

Charity

On this day, many people donate clothes, money and other essential items to the poor to celebrate the spirit of Boxing Day.

Outdoor activities

In many countries such as Canada and the UK, some use Boxing Day as an opportunity to go hiking, take long walks or take part in polar bear swimming.