Boxing Day

Boxing Day History

Boxing Day is observed in several countries within the British Commonwealth, including Australia. The day aims to show appreciation and reward to employees and people in need by giving boxed gifts and monetary bonuses. Key aspects of the observance include relaxation, spending time with family and friends, shopping sales, attending sporting events, and indulging in leisure activities.

Boxing Day's origins can be traced back to the United Kingdom during the Middle Ages, when servants and tradespeople would receive Christmas boxes from their employers as a token of gratitude. In Australia, however, Boxing Day has evolved to blend both British and local Australian culture, providing a day synonymous with relaxation and entertainment. The day has become a prominent shopping event, with many Australians splurging on post-Christmas discounts at the annual sales.

In Australia, various traditions take place on Boxing Day, such as attending Test cricket matches, charity events, or indulging in backyard barbecues. The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, an iconic sailing event, also occurs on this day. The ease of restrictions after Christmas Day allows Australians to enjoy a range of activities in the company of friends and family. Boxing Day celebrations occur on December 26th each year, following Christmas Day and adhering to the same calendar date as many other Commonwealth countries.

Top facts about Boxing Day

• 26 December is also St Stephen’s Day; commemorating the first Christian martyr Saint Stephen. According to the Acts of the Apostles Stephen was a deacon accused of blasphemy for his teachings. He was stoned to death and is now venerated as a saint in the Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox churches.
• Boxing Day is one of the 6 bank holidays in the UK. The others are Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter, Whit Monday and the August Bank Holiday.
• Boxing Day is observed across the country except for South Australia, where it is known as Proclamation Day.
• In Australia, Boxing Day coincides with the summer season.

In the News and Trending in Australia for Boxing Day

Boxing Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Watch some sport! There is top-tier football and rugby throughout the weekend and in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa cricket Test matches begin. The King George VI Chase, a horse race at Kempton Park also runs; it is known as the 2nd most prestigious race in the calendar.
• In the UK, it is tradition to take a walk in the crisp winter air and enjoy the outdoors. If you happen to be in the UK try the Snowdonia range (Wales), the Lake District (northern England), the Peak District (the English Midlands) or just round the local streets. You’ve probably eaten a lot over the last few days, so maybe go easy.
• Attend the Boxing Day Sales at the Queen Victoria Market, in Melbourne.
• Visiting a beach is a popular activity on Boxing Day, with Bondi Beach in Sydney being one of the most frequented spots.