Boxing Day

Boxing Day History

Boxing Day originally signified a day when employers would distribute gifts or boxes to their servants and other workers as an expression of gratitude for their service. Nowadays, Boxing Day has evolved into a more secular observance, with various customs depending on the specific country. It often includes spending time with family and friends, exchanging gifts, and taking advantage of post-Christmas sales.

Boxing Day is particularly observed in the UK and Ireland, while countries like Germany have a similar holiday called Zweiter Weihnachtsfeiertag, or Second Christmas Day. The origins of Boxing Day can be traced back to the Middle Ages, but it became an official holiday in England during the 19th century under Queen Victoria's reign. In recent years, Boxing Day represents a shared cultural tradition, potentially strengthening the ties between participating countries.

Boxing Day is observed in various ways, mostly centered on family gatherings and exchanging gifts. Some countries also partake in charitable acts, continuing the holiday's original spirit of generosity and appreciation. Significant attention is given to sporting events, particularly in the UK, where football and horse racing fixtures are highly anticipated. In EU countries that observe Boxing Day, it usually occurs on the 26th of December.

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.
• According to the BBC, in 2023, Boxing Day sales in the EU were expected to reach £3.7 billion.
  According to retailresearch.org, in 2020, Boxing Day sales were down by -36.6% compared to sales made in 2019.
• In the UK, if the 26th of December falls on a Sunday, Boxing Day is moved to the 27th of December as it is a Bank Holiday and nobody works.
• Thence by coach to my shoemaker’s and paid all there, and gave something to the boys’ box against Christmas. - Diary of Samuel Pepys, entry Saturday 19 December, 1663

In the News and Trending in the EU for Boxing Day

Boxing Day Top 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.
• Take a traditional UK Boxing Day Dip. Although there are many of these throughout Europe, the largest is held by the Lions Club of Sunderland in England. IT is a fundraiser and requires participants to dress up and jump into the North Sea.
• If you can face it, brave the crowds and pick up a bargain at the shops. Most major retailers will be open, smaller shops might not be though. Electronics are where some of the biggest savings will be found.
• Continue the tradition of giving gifts and donate some essentials to a charity. Homeless shelters would appreciate things like toiletries and food donations that can then be distributed to those most in need.