Boxing Day is a public holiday that is observed in several countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
It is typically celebrated on December 26, the day after Christmas Day.
The origins of Boxing Day are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the 19th century.
One theory is that it was a day when servants and tradespeople would receive a “Christmas box” filled with gifts and money from their employers as a way of thanking them for their service.
Another theory is that it was a day when alms boxes, which were used to collect money for the poor, were opened and the contents distributed to those in need.
In the United Kingdom, Boxing Day is a bank holiday and a day of rest, with most businesses and schools closed.
In Canada, it is a federal holiday and is celebrated by many people as a day to visit with friends and family.
In Australia, it is a public holiday in all states and territories and is typically marked by sporting events, such as the Sydney to Hobart yacht race and the Boxing Day Test cricket match.
In New Zealand, it is a public holiday and is often celebrated with sporting events, such as the Auckland Domain Cricket Match.
In the United States, Boxing Day is not a public holiday, but some people may celebrate it as a cultural or historical event.
In some countries, Boxing Day is also known as St. Stephen’s Day, after the Christian saint who is said to have been the first martyr of the Christian church.
In many countries, Boxing Day is also a day when people engage in charitable activities, such as donating to food banks or volunteering at shelters.
In the United Kingdom, it is traditional for people to go fox hunting on Boxing Day, although this activity has become controversial in recent years due to animal welfare concerns.
In Canada, Boxing Day is also known as “Day of Goodwill,” and it is common for people to donate to charity or engage in other acts of kindness.
In some countries, Boxing Day is also a day when people go shopping, as many retailers offer special sales and discounts.
In Australia, it is common for people to go to the beach on Boxing Day, as it is the start of the summer holiday season.
In the United Kingdom, it is traditional for people to watch the Queen’s Christmas speech on television on Boxing Day.
In some countries, Boxing Day is also a day when people watch or participate in parades, such as the Toronto Santa Claus Parade in Canada.
In the United Kingdom, it is also traditional for people to play sports on Boxing Day, such as football (soccer) and rugby.
In many countries, Boxing Day is a day for people to relax and spend time with friends and family after the busy holiday season.