Here’s what you need to know about the holiday.
What’s the point of Boxing Day?
It is a day to offer to the less fortunate. Back in the Victorian era in Britain, servants were allowed to visit their families on December 26 because they had to work for their employers’ Christmas holidays. It became such a standard practice that in 1871 a new holiday was born. It coincides with St. Stephen’s Day, a Christian holiday with similar charitable themes. When the boxing day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it is observed on the next Monday.
So why call it Boxing Day?
There are several theories. Some say it comes from the moment when the rich would give their employees boxes full of small gifts, money and Christmas leftovers to recognize their services. Another theory is that churches put boxes for people to give money to the poor, and the money was distributed the day after Christmas.
Where do you celebrate Boxing Day?
Wherever you want. But it is widely recognized in Britain and the former British colonies, such as Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
I am American. Can I still celebrate?
Of course. Join the fun. No one can stop you from being charitable.
What do you do on boxing day?
Some people like to go fox hunting or horse racing, because St. Stephen was the owner of horses. Although fox hunting was banned in 2004, people still practice regularly for the sport. For others, the day after Christmas is like the Friday after Thanksgiving in the United States – the extravagance of shopping. Of course, these are the things people do when we are new not in the middle of a pandemic. It is best this year to stay safe and socially remote.
