December 26: Boxing Day
Prayer Idea
Pray for people who are giving and receiving gifts throughout the year.
History Note
Boxing Day is a holiday that originated in Great Britain. It became an official bank holiday in 1871. The tradition also spread to places settled by British people, including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, and New Zealand. In South Africa, the holiday is now called Day of Goodwill.
The exact origin of the name Boxing Day is unclear. Here are two possible explanations:
Churches collected money for the poor in alms boxes. December 26 is St. Stephen’s Day, named after the early Christian deacon and martyr. The name Boxing Day could have come from the practice of opening the alms box and distributing money on St. Stephen’s Day.
The name could also come from a practice that persisted into Victorian times. Servants often had to work on Christmas Day to help their employers celebrate the holiday. On the day after Christmas, employers gave them the day off along with a box of leftover food and other gifts.
For those who celebrate all Twelve Days of Christmas, Boxing Day is the second day. January 5 is the twelfth day, followed by Epiphany on January 6.
In addition to gift giving, Boxing Day has become associated with shopping and sporting events. People also raise money for charities through events like this 2023 Fun Dip in Saltburn-by-the-sea, Teeside, England. Photo by Kazuno William Empson / Shutterstock.com.
Learn More
This video discusses the origins of Boxing Day and provides an Australian perspective.
Find more resources at Homeschool History.
