Fact 1: Boxing Day Origin
Did you know that December 26, traditionally known as Boxing Day, has its origins in the UK and is celebrated in a number of countries that were part of the British Empire? The holiday dates back to the Victorian era where churches would open their alms boxes (collection boxes for the poor) and distribute the contents to poor people on December 26.
Fact 2: Name Significance
Boxing Day was not named for the sport of boxing, nor for the notion of re-boxing Christmas presents. Rather, it comes from the historical practice of giving gifts or boxes to servants and tradespeople, acknowledging their service throughout the year.
Fact 3: Observed As a Public Holiday
December 26 is a public holiday in the UK, Canada, Australia and many other Commonwealth countries. It's typically a day off for most workers making it a time for family gatherings and sporting events.
Fact 4: St. Stephen's Day
In some parts of the world, December 26 is also known as St. Stephen's Day, honoring the first Christian martyr. In Ireland, this day occasionally referred to as the 'Day of the Wren' involves processions and hunting of a fake wren.
Fact 5: Second Christmas Day
In some European countries, including Germany, Poland, the Netherlands and Scandinavia, December 26 is celebrated as ‘Second Christmas Day’. This is often an extension of the Christmas festivities.
Fact 6: Boxing Day Sales
Very much like Black Friday in the United States, Boxing Day has become a busy day for shopping in countries that observe this holiday. Availing deep discounts, people flock to stores making it one of the busiest shopping days of the year.
Fact 7: A Sporty Affair
In the UK, Boxing Day is traditionally associated with sports. Football (soccer) and horse racing are particularly popular on this day.
Fact 8: Kwanzaa Celebration Begins
In the United States, the celebration of Kwanzaa begins on December 26 and lasts until January 1. This African American holiday celebrates family, community, and culture.
Fact 9: Independence Day
For Slovenia, December 26 is a special day as they celebrate their Independence and Unity Day, marking the announcement of a referendum in 1990 that led to the country's independence from Yugoslavia in 1991.
Fact 10: Tsunami Memorial Day
In several Asian nations, December 26 is observed as a memorial day recalling the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami disaster.
Fact 11: Start of Junkanoo Festival
In the Bahamas, Boxing Day sees the start of the lively and vibrant Junkanoo Festival, filled with parades, music, dance, and colorful costumes.
Fact 12: Prolonged Christmas Cheer
In countries celebrating Boxing Day, the holiday season extends past Christmas Day and continues the festive spirit, allowing more time to savor the Christmas cheer.
Fact 13: Canada’s Boxing Day Myth
There is a myth in Canada that Boxing Day is when people return unwanted Christmas presents to the stores. While it's true that malls are busy, most people are out to enjoy the Boxing Day sales.
Fact 14: A Day for Leftovers
Boxing Day has become a day of leftovers in many households. Turkey or ham sandwiches are common as families enjoy the remaining Christmas feast.
Fact 15: Fox Hunting
In the past, Boxing Day in the UK used to be the day for fox hunting. The hunts, with hunters on horseback and packs of hounds, were a huge part of the social calendar. The practice got banned in 2004.
Fact 16: Cricket and Sailing in Australia
In Australia, December 26 is a day for cricket and sailing. The Boxing Day Test match is a cricket game held every year at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race also begins on this day.
Fact 17: Proclamation Day in South Australia
South Australia doesn’t celebrate Boxing Day. Instead, December 26 is Proclamation Day, marking the day that the establishment of the state was proclaimed in 1836.
Fact 18: Family Time
In many countries, Boxing Day is a time to spend with family and friends, usually those not seen on Christmas Day itself.
Fact 19: Charity Events
In several countries, charity events, including fun runs and swim events, are organized on Boxing Day supporting causes or raising money for charity.
Fact 20: Public Transport is Limited
In the UK, due to the public holiday, public transport services are often limited. This is something to be mindful of when planning your Boxing Day activities.