Boxing Day, which is celebrated on December 26th, is a cherished tradition in the UK and many Commonwealth countries.
Here, the Christmas.co.uk team delves into the origins and significance of the day, exploring why it is a Bank Holiday and what activities and traditions are associated with it.
From the historical roots of giving ‘Christmas boxes’ to modern day customs, we’ll cover everything you need to know about this festive day.
Whether you’re curious about how other countries celebrate, what special meals are enjoyed, or looking for fun activities to do, this guide has you covered.
Why do we celebrate Boxing Day?
Boxing Day has its origins in the United Kingdom and is observed in many Commonwealth countries.
The name ‘Boxing Day’ is believed to come from the tradition of giving ‘Christmas boxes’ to tradespeople, servants and the poor.
These boxes contained gifts, money or leftovers from Christmas feasts.
Traditionally, churchgoers would place donations in a box during Christmas services. These boxes were opened on the day after Christmas, hence the name ‘Boxing Day’.
In Victorian times, it was customary to give gifts, often money, to postmen and other service workers on Boxing Day.
The day is also associated with the Feast of St Stephen, the first Christian martyr, known for acts of charity.
Why is Boxing Day a Bank Holiday?
Boxing Day became an official bank holiday in England and Wales in 1871 and in Scotland in 1974.
It is also a public holiday in many countries with ties to the UK, allowing people to take a break after the Christmas festivities and spend time with family and friends.
What happens on Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is marked by various activities and traditions.
For many people, it is a day for shopping with many retailers offering significant discounts and sales.
Sporting events, such as football matches and horse races, are also popular.
Also, many people participate in charitable activities – such as a ‘Boxing Day Dip’ which says hardy people jumping into the cold sea for charity – and so they continue the tradition of giving back to the community.
How do other countries celebrate Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is celebrated in several Commonwealth countries, each with its unique traditions:
- Australia: Known for beach outings, BBQs and the Boxing Day Test cricket match
- Canada: A federal statutory holiday with shopping sales and sports events – especially winter sports
- New Zealand: Celebrated with outdoor activities, sports and family gatherings
- South Africa: Known as the Day of Goodwill – this is a public holiday, and the name changed from Boxing Day in 1994 to better represent the country’s values – focusing on family and charitable acts.
Do people go to church on Boxing Day and why?
Since Boxing Day is St Stephen’s Day, this is a day for Christians to commemorate their first martyr.
He was chosen as one of seven deacons to care for the vulnerable within the early Christian community and was a gifted preacher who passionately defended his faith.
This unwavering belief led to his martyrdom. Accused of blasphemy, he was stoned to death after delivering a powerful speech before the Sanhedrin, the supreme Jewish council.
This event marked a significant turning point in the early Christian church, inspiring countless believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of persecution.
His feast day, observed in both Eastern and Western Churches since the 4th century, commemorates his sacrifice.
In art, he is often depicted holding a book of the Gospels, a stone symbolising his martyrdom, and sometimes a palm, a traditional emblem of martyrdom.
Lots of churches hold services to honour St Stephen and continue the spirit of charity and giving.
Do people give presents on Boxing Day?
While the tradition of giving ‘Christmas boxes’ has largely faded, some families will exchange their festive gifts on Boxing Day.
That’s because the roads are quieter, so lots of families will be travelling to join others to exchange festive presents and enjoy a meal together.
It is also a time for giving to those who provide services throughout the year, such as postal workers and tradespeople.
Do people eat special meals on Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is often associated with enjoying leftovers from Christmas Day.
Many families prepare buffets with cold meats, salads and festive treats – this is when sauces and gravy become crucial and so does mayonnaise. Some members of the Christmas.co.uk think the day should be renamed ‘Hellman’s Day’ in honour of the condiment.
Popular dishes include turkey curry, ham and various pies.
10 things to do on Boxing Day in the UK
As a public holiday, this is a popular way of leaving the home after a Christmas feast the day before. Some people head to the coast for a stroll, others to the countryside, and other activities include:
Shopping: Take advantage of Boxing Day sales and discounts
- Watch sports: Enjoy football matches, horse races or a cricket match
- Take a Boxing Day dip: Participate in a chilly swim for charity
- Visit family and friends: Spend quality time with loved ones
- Go for a walk: Enjoy the winter scenery and walk off the Christmas feast
- Attend a pantomime: Watch a traditional British pantomime performance
- Host a buffet: Prepare a spread of festive foods and leftovers
- Play board games: Have a fun game night with family and friends – especially if Santa has brought a new board game to explore
- Have a pub lunch: Enjoy a traditional British pub meal with friends
- Relax and unwind: Take it easy and enjoy a quiet day at home.
A festive tradition
Boxing Day is a popular Bank Holiday and a chance to recover from the activities of Christmas Day.
Whether it’s spending quality time with family, indulging in delicious food or supporting local businesses and charities, Boxing Day provides a perfect blend of relaxation and celebration.
