A Brief History

Boxing Day: A Post-Christmas Tradition

A Brief History

Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated on the second day of Christmastide, which falls on December 26th. The tradition dates back to medieval times, when it was customary for wealthy families to give gifts to their servants on the day after Christmas.

A Day for Giving

In the early days, Boxing Day was primarily a day for giving. Servants and other low-paid workers would receive gifts from their employers as a token of appreciation for their hard work throughout the year. Over time, the custom expanded to include friends, family members, and even strangers.

A Day of Rest

In modern times, Boxing Day has evolved into a day of rest and relaxation for many people. In Great Britain and several Commonwealth countries, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, it is a public holiday, giving people an extra day off after the busy Christmas season.