Boxing Day 2022: Date, History, Significance, and More

The UK and other British nations are in the midst of their Christmas celebrations as they anticipate Boxing Day on December 26, 2022. Boxing Day, which is observed the day after Christmas, is a significant English holiday. Due to its unusual name, many people might assume it to be a boxing event, but this is far from the truth. Boxing Day, despite its name, is all about delivering gifts to the less fortunate. On this holiday, individuals leave their houses and spend time giving gifts and cash to those in need.

History and Significance

Although different origin myths have served to reveal the Day’s past, the exact roots of the holiday are not universally acknowledged. The day reportedly acquired its distinctive moniker during the era of Queen Victoria, who presided over the country in the 1800s. It is related to the custom of wealthy families providing boxed presents to the underprivileged. Rich aristocratic households employed their servants to work for them over the holiday season. On the day after Christmas, the rich spoiled them with boxes of gifts, cash, and leftover food as part of the holiday bonus.

The notion presented by History.com provided a different viewpoint on the history of this day. This hypothesis holds that churches maintained alms boxes to collect donations for the less fortunate. The funds were given out to the needy on December 26 in commemoration of St. Stephen, a martyred Christian noted for his charitable works. Ireland’s indigenous observe Boxing Day as St. Stephen’s Day.

Where is Boxing Day observed?

In the United Kingdom as well as all British Commonwealth countries, Boxing Day is extensively observed. In the United States, little is known about the celebration. However, it is a national holiday in Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia.

Boxing Day celebrations

Boxing Day celebrations now take on a fresh look. Whereas before it was restricted to giving gifts to the less fortunate, today it includes all-day shopping excursions. On this day, several sporting events are scheduled, particularly for football enthusiasts. Many see it as the American version of the Black Friday celebration. Boxing Day bargains and discounts are plentiful at malls and retail stores. On this day, many individuals travel to England to reap the benefits of the sales that are offered in English-speaking nations.