Boxing Day

Boxing Day History

Boxing Day serves as an extension of the Christmas holiday, allowing people to spend more time with their families and loved ones. It is often associated with charity and community-oriented activities, providing opportunities to give back and help those in need. Additionally, Boxing Day is known for its seasonal sales, as many retailers offer significant discounts, making it a popular day for shopping.

For Norwegians, Boxing Day is not a national holiday, but it bears similarities to the Norwegian holiday known as Andre Juledag or Second Christmas Day. Historically, Boxing Day originated in the United Kingdom as a day when the upper class would give boxed gifts of food and money to their servants and the less fortunate. In Norway, the term Boxing Day is not commonly used, but many elements of this international observance are shared, particularly its charitable spirit and emphasis on family gatherings.

In Norway, Andre Juledag is a public holiday observed on the 26th of December. This day is often spent relaxing with family members, visiting friends, or attending holiday events. While there may not be a specific Norwegian Boxing Day tradition, Norwegians are known for their generosity and compassion, often supporting charitable causes during the holiday season.

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.
• Norwegians often use the Boxing Day holiday to enjoy winter sports and activities. Skiing, ice skating, and sledding are popular pastimes during the romjul period.
• An old Norwegian tradition called julebukking or julebukk involves dressing up in costumes and going door-to-door, singing Christmas songs and asking for treats.

In the News and Trending in Norway 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.
• The stunning fjords of Norway are also a great pick for Boxing day. You can experience these majestic natural wonders on a ferry cruise.
• The old town in Bergen is beautifully lit and decorated during the holiday season. It’s worth a visit for a picturesque Boxing Day experience.