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The custom of Boxing Day, observed as a public holiday in various Commonwealth countries, stems from the historical practice of distributing gifts to the less fortunate. This day falls on the same date as Saint Stephen’s Day.
December 26th, the day that follows Christmas, is commonly referred to as Boxing Day. For a multitude of people outside the United States, this date is a time for elaborate celebrations and established traditions. In countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth territories, it is a designated public holiday, leading to the closure of most offices and banks. Boxing Day 2025: A comprehensive look at its history, significance, traditions, and all details concerning the December 26th holiday.
What is the origin of the name «Boxing Day,» and what is its historical background and importance on December 26th?
Over the years, various explanations have emerged regarding the genesis of Boxing Day and the derivation of its name. The most widely accepted theory, as reported by the BBC, posits that the name originates from a custom of «giving boxed presents to the less fortunate.»
The roots of this holiday extend back centuries. It’s believed that servants who worked on Christmas Day would observe their own celebration on December 26th, using this day to exchange presents with loved ones instead of the 25th. Employers would often present these servants with boxed gifts as a gesture of gratitude for their holiday labor.
Another perspective, cited by the same source, connects the name to ecclesiastical practices, where donation boxes were distributed to the needy on the day following Christmas. Although the precise inception date of Boxing Day remains unconfirmed, it was officially recognized as a public holiday in the United Kingdom during Queen Victoria’s rule.
During her tenure, the affluent would pack up surplus food, currency, or other items and bestow them upon their tradespeople and domestic staff as a reward for their consistent service throughout the year, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
What’s the story behind Boxing Day celebrations and their customs?
Boxing Day, observed on December 26th, is a time for various customs such as exchanging presents, contributing to charitable causes, attending equestrian events and football matches, and enjoying leftover holiday meals with loved ones. It’s a designated day for individuals to step away from their jobs and unwind following the Christmas celebrations of December 25th.
This same date, December 26th, is also recognized as Saint Stephen’s Day, a Christian observance with its own global customs. This occasion, referred to as the Feast of Saint Stephen, commemorates the life of Saint Stephen, the inaugural Christian martyr.
Several nations, including Germany, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Romania, observe this day as a public holiday. Saint Stephen is revered as the patron saint for a range of individuals and professions, such as altar servers, deacons, those afflicted with headaches, and stonemasons.
