Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, has a long-standing tradition in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries. The origin and history of Boxing Day in the United Kingdom can be traced back to various historical and cultural influences. Here is an overview of its origins and history:
Medieval Origins: The exact origins of Boxing Day are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have roots in medieval England. One theory suggests that it originated from the practice of churches collecting alms in boxes to distribute to the poor on the day after Christmas. Another theory points to the tradition of wealthy landowners giving gifts or boxes of food to their servants and tenants as a form of appreciation.
St. Stephen's Day: Boxing Day is traditionally associated with St. Stephen's Day, which is dedicated to the first Christian martyr, Saint Stephen. In the Christian calendar, December 26th is recognized as St. Stephen's Day, and his story is recounted in the biblical account found in the Acts of the Apostles. The connection to St. Stephen's Day may have furthered the practice of charitable giving during this time.
Feast of Saint Stephen: In medieval times, Boxing Day was also known as the Feast of Saint Stephen. It was a day for charitable acts, almsgiving, and the distribution of "Christmas boxes" containing gifts or money to those in need. This tradition of giving to the less fortunate continued to be associated with Boxing Day.
Sporting Traditions: Boxing Day also became associated with sports and outdoor activities, particularly in the 19th century. It became a traditional day for various sporting events, such as fox hunting, horse racing, football (soccer) matches, and other outdoor pursuits. These sporting traditions continue today, with many popular sporting events held on Boxing Day.
Public Holiday: Boxing Day is recognized as a public holiday in the United Kingdom. It allows people to have an additional day off following Christmas Day. It is a time for relaxation, family gatherings, and engaging in recreational activities. Many people also take advantage of the post-Christmas sales, as Boxing Day has become synonymous with shopping bargains.
Today, Boxing Day is observed as a combination of charitable acts, family gatherings, sporting events, and retail sales. It retains its historical associations with giving and generosity while also serving as a day for leisure and enjoyment. The specific traditions and activities vary among different regions and families, but the underlying spirit of Boxing Day revolves around community, togetherness, and acts of goodwill.
Year | Weekday | Date | Name | Time |
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2024 | Thursday | 26 Dec 2024 | Boxing Day | in 2 months |
2025 | Friday | 26 Dec 2025 | Boxing Day | in 1 year |
2026 | Saturday | 26 Dec 2026 | Boxing Day | in 2 years |
2026 | Monday | 28 Dec 2026 | Boxing Day (Observed) | in 2 years |
2027 | Sunday | 26 Dec 2027 | Boxing Day | in 3 years |
2027 | Tuesday | 28 Dec 2027 | Boxing Day (Observed) | in 3 years |
2028 | Tuesday | 26 Dec 2028 | Boxing Day | in 4 years |
2029 | Wednesday | 26 Dec 2029 | Boxing Day | in 5 years |
2030 | Thursday | 26 Dec 2030 | Boxing Day | in 6 years |
2031 | Friday | 26 Dec 2031 | Boxing Day | in 7 years |
2032 | Sunday | 26 Dec 2032 | Boxing Day | in 8 years |
2032 | Tuesday | 28 Dec 2032 | Boxing Day (Observed) | in 8 years |
2033 | Monday | 26 Dec 2033 | Boxing Day | in 9 years |
2034 | Tuesday | 26 Dec 2034 | Boxing Day | in 10 years |
2035 | Wednesday | 26 Dec 2035 | Boxing Day | in 11 years |
2036 | Friday | 26 Dec 2036 | Boxing Day | in 12 years |
2037 | Saturday | 26 Dec 2037 | Boxing Day | in 13 years |
2037 | Monday | 28 Dec 2037 | Boxing Day (Observed) | in 13 years |
2038 | Sunday | 26 Dec 2038 | Boxing Day | in 14 years |
2038 | Tuesday | 28 Dec 2038 | Boxing Day (Observed) | in 14 years |
2039 | Monday | 26 Dec 2039 | Boxing Day | in 15 years |
2023 | Tuesday | 26 Dec 2023 | Boxing Day | 9 months ago |
2022 | Monday | 26 Dec 2022 | Boxing Day | 1 year ago |
2021 | Sunday | 26 Dec 2021 | Boxing Day | 2 years ago |
2021 | Tuesday | 28 Dec 2021 | Boxing Day (Observed) | 2 years ago |
2020 | Saturday | 26 Dec 2020 | Boxing Day | 3 years ago |
2020 | Monday | 28 Dec 2020 | Boxing Day (Observed) | 3 years ago |
2019 | Thursday | 26 Dec 2019 | Boxing Day | 4 years ago |