The origins of Boxing Day and how we celebrate it today: A complete guide from traditions to shopping

Boxing Day is a traditional holiday celebrated on December 26th every year, especially in the United Kingdom and its Commonwealth countries.

However, many people may not know why this day was named “boxing” and what its origins are.

Additionally, over time, the ways to celebrate Boxing Day have diversified, and today it has become known as a major shopping event.

In this section, we explore the origins and history of Boxing Day and discover how this special day has been passed down to us today.

 

 

What is Boxing Day? Explore origins and history

Boxing Day is a traditional public holiday celebrated on December 26th every year, especially in the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth countries.

Although the way this day is celebrated and its meaning differs depending on the country and region, its origins share a common historical background.

 

What is the origin of Boxing Day?

The name Boxing Day has its origins in 19th century England and is derived from the customs of the time.

On this day, it was customary for employers to give gifts and money to workers and officials in boxes called “Christmas boxes.”

This event is often held the day after Christmas, giving it its name, Boxing Day.

Another origin of Boxing Day is the church tradition of opening boxes containing donations from believers during Christmas and distributing them to the poor.

 

 

History of Boxing Day around the world

Boxing Day originated in England, but became widely celebrated in countries that were under the influence of the British Empire and in the Commonwealth countries.

However, the way this day is spent varies from country to country.

For example, in Australia and New Zealand, Boxing Day is a public holiday, a day to enjoy outdoor activities such as relaxing on the beach and watching a cricket match.

On the other hand, in Canada, this day is often the start of large year-end sales and is also known as a day for shopping.

 

The history of Boxing Day is rooted in a spirit of charity and gratitude. Even though times have changed and ways to celebrate have diversified, the essence of the day remains the same, as a day for people to be considerate of each other and share joy together.

Celebrated in different ways around the world, Boxing Day is a unique holiday that reflects the diversity of cultural backgrounds and traditions.

A modern way to celebrate Boxing Day

Boxing Day is a modern day holiday derived from past traditions, and is also known as an opportunity to enjoy time with family and friends, as well as indulge in some year-end shopping.

The meaning of this day has changed over time and has taken on many different forms of celebration.

 

Boxing Day with family and friends

Boxing Day is the day after Christmas, and is considered a relaxing time to spend with family and friends.

Many families use this day to enjoy the afterglow of Christmas and spend time together as a family.

There are also various activities to enjoy the holidays, such as going out for a walk or watching a movie at home.

At meals, it is also common for creative recipes using leftovers from Christmas dinner to be on the table.

 

Boxing Day as a shopping day

In recent years, Boxing Day has become very popular as a day for large-scale shopping events.

Many retailers and online shops run special sales and promotions on this day to attract consumers with great year-end bargains.

For shopping enthusiasts, it’s the perfect time to reopen their used-up wallets for Christmas gifts, giving them the chance to get great deals on next year’s Christmas gifts and essential household items.

 

Also, shopping on this day is considered the perfect time to purchase new clothes, furniture, electronics, etc. in preparation for the new year.

 

From its origins to modern times, Boxing Day has evolved as an important day for bonding with family and friends and enjoying year-end celebrations.

It is also one of the most anticipated shopping days for many people.

Boxing Day events and traditions

Boxing Day is a traditional holiday celebrated mainly in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries, and various events and traditions are alive in each region.

This day is known not only for spending time with family and friends, but also for special sporting events and public celebrations.

 

How to celebrate in the UK and Commonwealth countries

In the UK, Boxing Day is an official public holiday and many people enjoy the holiday. Traditionally, this day is a time for family gatherings to enjoy the afterglow of Christmas, especially when leftovers from Christmas dinner are served.

In the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth countries, many charity and community events are held on Boxing Day, bringing people together to share the joy of the holiday.

In particular, the tradition of distributing gift boxes to the poor is said to be one of the origins of the name Boxing Day.

 

Boxing Day as a sporting event

Boxing Day is also a day full of sporting events.

Especially in the Premier League, many matches are scheduled on Boxing Day, and it is one of the great things fans look forward to at the end of the year.

Other sports, such as horse racing and rugby, also sometimes hold special events to celebrate this day.

Sporting events provide a great opportunity to get out and have fun with family and friends, adding to the festive atmosphere of Boxing Day.

 

Boxing Day is a special day that combines traditional and modern celebrations, celebrated in its own way across the UK and Commonwealth countries.

 

The family bonds, compassion for charity and passion for sport that this day brings make Boxing Day special and for many people an important day at the end of the year.

Boxing Day shopping guide

Boxing Day is known for its big year-end sales and special promotions.

In order to shop wisely, it is important to know the tips for winning sales and online shopping.

 

Boxing Day Sale Strategy

Boxing Day sales typically have limited product availability and may require shopping in crowded stores.

Smart consumers take advantage of sales by keeping the following points in mind.

 

  • Do your research in advance : Research the products and stores you want before the sale, and check which stores have discounts on the products you want.
  • Leave early : Arrive at the store before the sale starts to beat the crowds and increase your chances of getting the items you want.
  • Create a priority list : Create a list of items you want in advance and prioritize them to make shopping more efficient.
  • Take advantage of sale periods : Boxing Day sales typically last for several days, rather than just one day. By shopping with plenty of time to spare during the sale period, you can find great deals without rushing.

 

Online shopping tips and tricks

Boxing Day sales are also available online, allowing you to shop without the crowds and confusion.

Consider these tips when shopping online:

 

  • Pre-registration : Registering your online shop account in advance will make your shopping experience go smoothly.
  • Price Comparison : See if multiple online stores sell the same product and find the best price.
  • Use coupon codes : You may be able to get additional discounts by using coupon codes at online stores. Use coupon codes to save money on your purchases.
  • Check shipping and return policies : When purchasing online, it’s important to check shipping and return policies. You can improve your shopping experience by choosing stores that offer free shipping and flexible return policies.

 

Use these tips and tricks to save money during the Boxing Day sale!

Ideas and suggestions for enjoying Boxing Day

Boxing Day is a great opportunity to spend some relaxing time with family and friends.

Even if you’re relaxing at home, you can still enjoy fun activities and delicious food.

 

Fun ways and activities at home

  • Movie night : How about enjoying a movie night with your family and friends? Boxing Day is also the release date for new movies, so going to the cinema is also a good option. Also, if you watch movies at home, try making a list of your favorite movies and series.
  • Game Tournament : Host a game tournament with your family and friends! Choose a board game or video game to have fun while competing.
  • Walking or Hiking : Weather permitting, outdoor activities are a great option. Enjoy walking or hiking in a nearby park or nature preserve. You can feel refreshed while breathing in the fresh air.

 

Dishes and recipes to brighten up Boxing Day

  • Leftover Christmas Dinner : Get creative with leftover Christmas dinner! You can make dishes to enjoy the afterglow of Christmas, such as turkey sandwiches and Turkish-style pilaf.
  • Sweets Day : Boxing Day is the perfect day to enjoy sweets. Try making your favorite sweets and have fun making sweets with your family and friends. The sweets we make ourselves, such as cookies, cakes, and chocolates, are especially delicious!

 

Boxing Day is a great opportunity to enjoy special time with family and friends.

Have a wonderful and memorable Boxing Day with fun activities and delicious food!

The origins of Boxing Day and how we celebrate it today: A complete guide to everything from tradition to shopping

Boxing Day is the day after Christmas and is a great time to enjoy time with family and friends.

There are many ways to have fun as you can relax at home or go out and be active.

Activities at home like watching a movie or playing a game can be fun, and walking or hiking outdoors is a great option when the weather is nice.

It’s also important to enjoy delicious food, so you can use leftovers from Christmas or enjoy making sweets with your family.

 

Boxing Day is a great opportunity to bond with family and friends and spend some memorable time amidst busy year-end schedules.

Enjoy a heartwarming time and welcome the new year with positivity!

 

Click here for boxing glossary

Return to the glossary TOP

Pocket
LINEで送る