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What is Boxing Day? All to know about traditions of day after Christmas

Boxing Day, observed on December 26, blends historic traditions of charity with modern customs like shopping, gatherings, and sports. Here's how the holiday began and why it's still widely celebrated around the world.
posted by Anisa Nandy
Friday 12/26/2025 at 9:18AM EST
  • LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 26: Shoppers on Oxford Street hit the Boxing Day Sales on December 26, 2017 in London, England. According to reports, a decrease for in-store shopping is expected while online purchases are rising during after Christmas sales. (Photo by HGL/Getty Images)
    LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 26: Shoppers on Oxford Street hit the Boxing Day Sales on December 26, 2017 in London, England. According to reports, a decrease for in-store shopping is expected while online purchases are rising during after Christmas sales. (Photo by HGL/Getty Images)

    Boxing Day, which takes place across the UK and some of the Commonwealth on the day after Christmas, on December 26. This year, it lands on a Friday. However, being very little to do with the sport or wrapping presents, the occasion bears no relation to its name.

    It has deep roots in history and it has been molded throughout the centuries by social practices. Gradually, it has evolved to become an official vacation that is characterized by rest, shopping, and local culture. Forms vary by area, but there are common factors that are universal amongst communities.

    How Boxing Day evolved over time?

    Roots of Boxing Day wind through time, tied to customs whose beginnings scholars continue to examine. Some accounts link it to church charity boxes opened after Christmas to support those in need, while others note the custom of employers presenting boxes of money or small gifts to workers who worked through the holiday. Evidence in print emerges clearly by the 18th century, though earlier traces may exist.

    Over decades, the occasion shifted shape without losing its grounding in exchange and community. In Britain and beyond, December 26 now hosts relaxed meals among friends, reusing dishes from prior feasts. Retail activity surges, mirroring patterns seen elsewhere after major holidays. Celebration blends with commerce, quietly marking the season's next phase.

    Origin of Boxing Day

    Following Christmas, a tradition emerged during the Victorian age where affluent families offered tokens of appreciation to laborers, domestic staff, and local vendors. Some scholars link these acts to church customs involving collected donations given out on December 26; others emphasize employers distributing surplus meals, items, or modest sums.

    Though such observances did not become common across America, numerous nations still mark the occasion each year. Over time, gift-giving and goodwill have shared space with retail activity, festive gatherings, athletic contests. The essence may have changed, yet the date stays fixed in winter's rhythm.

    Keep reading PRIMETIMER for more informative content!

    TOPICS: Boxing Day