Boxing Day lives in the shadow of Christmas. It’s a time to eat leftovers day, a time to lounge around day, or the day your in-laws finally go home type of day. But this quiet December 26th tradition has much deeper roots.
Why is the day after Christmas called Boxing Day?
Boxing Day originated in the United Kingdom during the Victorian era. On the day after Christmas, upper-class families would “box up” gifts, leftovers, or money and give them to their servants and tradespeople. It was essentially a ‘thank you’ to the people who worked hard behind the scenes for them all year.
It was (and remains) an important day for British churches. Boxing Day happens to fall on St. Stephen’s Day. The clergy encouraged donations to the poor, placing alms boxes out for congregants to fill.
Who celebrates Boxing Day today?
Aside from the United Kingdom, Boxing Day is still observed as a public holiday in many countries that were part of the British Empire. From Canada to Australia, South Africa to the Caribbean, December 26th is a special day.
Each country has its own spin. In Britain, it’s often associated with fox hunts (now replaced by trail hunts or symbolic gatherings). In Australia, it’s the start of cricket season. In Canada, it’s basically Black Friday, part two.
What do people do on Boxing Day?
The short answer is – whatever they want.
Eating and relaxing generally top the list, but it’s an open choice.
There are those that honor the original spirit of the day by making donations of clothes, toys, and household items, which they take to the local charity shop. While others take the day to declutter and reboot before the New Year arrives, tackling the post-holiday mess or cleaning out the closets. Most embrace the art of doing nothing. No pressure. No presents. No cooking if you don’t want to. Perhaps an all-day-movie marathon while still in pajamas. Or reading a book that has still not yet been cracked open.
Whether spending the day giving back, cleaning out, or cozying up, Boxing Day is a gentle pause between Christmas chaos and New Year’s celebration. It is also a reminder that rest, reflection, and generosity are worth celebrating, too.
