Boxing Day

Boxing Day is a public holiday celebrated on 26 December, mainly in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth countries. Once focused on giving to those in need, it now blends traditions of charity, family gatherings, and major shopping events.

• Held on 26 December, the day after Christmas
• Known for major retail sales and shopping crowds
• Traditionally a day for giving to those in need
• Observed in the UK, Canada, Australia, and other Commonwealth countries
• In Bermuda, Gombey dancers perform in colourful costumes

What it is

Boxing Day, observed on 26 December, is a holiday that follows Christmas and is marked in many Commonwealth nations. Traditionally, it was a day to give gifts or gratuities to those who provided services throughout the year, such as tradespeople and servants. Today, it is both a time for family gatherings and a major shopping day, with many people taking advantage of post-Christmas sales. In some regions, it is also known as the second day of Christmas or Saint Stephen's Day, and carries a spirit of goodwill and generosity.

Where it comes from

The origins of Boxing Day trace back to Britain, where the custom of giving 'Christmas boxes'—gifts or money—to service workers and the poor was established by at least the 17th century. The name may refer to boxes placed in churches to collect donations for the needy, a practice linked to the Feast of Saint Stephen, which also falls on 26 December. Over time, the day became associated with acts of charity and gratitude, as well as a chance for servants to visit their families after working on Christmas Day.

How it is celebrated

Celebrations on Boxing Day vary by country and region. In the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, it is famous for large retail sales, with shops opening early and crowds lining up for bargains. Many people spend the day with family or friends, enjoying leftovers from Christmas or attending sporting events such as cricket matches or yacht races. In Bermuda, costumed Gombey dancers perform in the streets, continuing a tradition dating back centuries. In South Africa, the day is called the Day of Goodwill, emphasizing the spirit of generosity and community. While shopping is a major feature, the day also retains elements of charity and relaxation.

Joining in

If you visit a country where Boxing Day is celebrated, expect bustling shopping districts and lively crowds, especially in major cities like London, Toronto, Sydney, and Auckland. Many stores offer significant discounts, and public transport may be busy. In some places, you might catch local traditions, such as street performances or sporting events. While much of the focus is on shopping, it is also a day for relaxed gatherings and enjoying the festive atmosphere that lingers after Christmas.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article Boxing Day, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• Boxing Day on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

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