Boxing Day is observed the day after Christmas. The event is today observed as a ‘shopping holiday’. It originated as a day to give gifts to the poor. But, now it is celebrated as a ‘shopping holiday’.
It was made official in 1871. On the other hand, if that day happens on a Saturday, the holiday is celebrated on the following Monday, and if it falls on a Sunday, it is observed on the next Tuesday.
Also Read: Christmas 2023: Know why we say ‘Merry Christmas’
Boxing Day is currently observed in many nations across Europe, as well as nations and former British colonies, such as New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and so forth. It is believed that Boxing Day originated in the United Kingdom and received its name during Queen Victoria’s reign.
The day is also marked by a bank holiday or a public holiday in these countries with stores offering Boxing Day sales.
There are several theories surrounding the celebration and origins of Boxing day, one of which includes it being a day off for servants where they would receive a gift from their employers and take these Christmas boxes to their families. These boxes would consist of gifts, bonuses, as well as leftovers from the meals, served on Christmas.
Meanwhile, in countries like European countries like Ireland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Italy, Poland, Finland, and so on, December 26 is also celebrated as St. Stephen’s Day, to commemorate the first Christian martyr, known for his service to the poor and was stoned to death in AD 36.
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