Boxing Day

holidays · Christmas · UK traditions · giving

Gifts for helpers. Boxing Day got its name from the tradition of giving boxed gifts to servants and workers who couldn't celebrate Christmas with their own families. These boxes contained money, food, and other presents as a thank you for their hard work.

December 26th. Boxing Day happens every year on December 26, the day right after Christmas. If December 26 falls on a weekend, the holiday might be celebrated on the next weekday instead so people get a day off.

Commonwealth celebration. Boxing Day started in the United Kingdom and is celebrated in many Commonwealth countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Each place has its own special way of celebrating this holiday.

Saint Stephen's Day. Boxing Day coincides with Saint Stephen's Day, an important Christian holiday that honors Saint Stephen. In some countries, people call December 26 by Saint Stephen's name instead of Boxing Day.

Part of Christmas. Today, Boxing Day has become part of the overall Christmas celebration rather than just a day for giving to workers. Many people use it as an extra day to enjoy with family, go shopping, or watch sports.