Boxing Day

Boxing Day History

Boxing Day is a public holiday that follows Christmas Day. Traditionally, it was a day when employers would give Christmas boxes or gifts to their employees and servants as a gesture of gratitude for the work done throughout the year. In modern times, the day has become synonymous with shopping, as retailers offer large discounts and extended hours similar to the sales seen on Black Friday in the United States.

Though not an official holiday in India, Boxing Day has its cultural significance among the Anglo-Indian community, which has a long-standing presence in the country. This community, largely found in cities like Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai, has British ancestry and maintains ties to the United Kingdom. As a result, they often observe Christian traditions and festivals, including Boxing Day. Furthermore, with globalization, people throughout India are becoming more familiar with traditions and customs from around the world, leading to an increased awareness of the holiday.

In India, Boxing Day is mainly a private observance among Anglo-Indians and expatriates from the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries, who may partake in gift-giving or attend traditional feasts. Some retailers in major cities are extending the holiday shopping season by offering Boxing Day sales and promotions to capitalize on the growing international awareness. Boxing Day takes place on December 26th every year, one day after Christmas Day.

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.
• The term Boxing Day refers to the custom of giving out Christmas boxes, which were usually filled with gifts or money, to tradespeople and servants after Christmas as a token of appreciation for their service throughout the year.
• Boxing Day is also associated with sports, particularly football, cricket, and horse racing.

In the News and Trending in India 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.
• Winter is an excellent period to visit the beaches of Goa.
• You could visit Rajasthan as it's one of the perfect winter destinations in India.