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Why is the day after Christmas called Boxing Day?

On December 26, Boxing Day is observed across the U.K. and British Commonwealth countries including Australia, Canada and New Zealand as the annual day after Christmas.
Some historians trace the term to church alms boxes opened after Christmas, while others link it to gifts for household servants and employees, with print references dating back to 1833.
One common pattern sees three ways people spend Boxing Day: shopping, walking or lounging, as British households typically become early risers, family walkers, or loungers in pyjamas enjoying turkey and glazed gammon.
Since the Victorian era, Boxing Day has carried United Kingdom bank holiday status, moving to Monday if on a weekend, providing families and friends an extra day off before returning to work.
Boxing Week begins on December 26 as retailers clear stock, but Black Friday sales have gained traction and partly overshadowed Boxing Week, while Manchester United versus Newcastle United anchors the day.

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Manchester Evening News

Center

Why December 26 is called Boxing Day - and where the name came from

The iconic holiday has been celebrated in Britain since the 19th Century

19 hours ago·Manchester, United Kingdom

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RollingStone

Left

The Best Boxing Day Sales to Shop This Year, From Abercrombie to Zappos

From Amazon to Walmart save up to 80% off online with these Boxing Day sales. Get closeout and clearance deals on fashion, electronics, shoes and more

1 day ago·Los Angeles, United States

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NDTV

Lean Right

What Is Boxing Day 2025? Origins, History And Significance Of Dec 26 Holiday

Boxing Day 2025: This day is celebrated in Britain and Commonwealth nations with sports events, family feasts, and shopping sales. Its origin lies in Victorian charity gift-giving traditions.

2 days ago·New Delhi, India

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National Geographic

Center

What to know about Boxing Day—also known as St. Stephen's Day and Wren Day

Celebrated on December 26, this British holiday was likely inspired by one of several charitable traditions. Here are the theories—and how it is observed today.

2 days ago·United States

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