When is it?
December 26th, Boxing Day takes place on December 26th or the following Monday
if December 26 falls on a Saturday or Sunday.
Where did it come from?
Boxing Day began in England, in the middle of the nineteenth century, under
Queen Victoria. Boxing Day, also known as St. Stephen's Day, was a way for the
upper class to give gifts of cash, or other goods, to those of the lower
classes.
Where is Boxing Day celebrated?
Boxing Day is celebrated in Australia, Britain, New Zealand, and Canada.
How is Boxing Day celebrated?
There seems to be two theories on the origin of Boxing Day and why it is
celebrated. The first is that centuries ago, on the day after Christmas, members
of the merchant class would give boxes containing food and fruit, clothing,
and/or money to trades people and servants. The gifts were an expression of
gratitude much like when people receive bonuses, from their employer, for a job
well done, today. These gifts, given in boxes, gave the holiday it's name,
"Boxing Day".
The second thought is that Boxing Day comes from the tradition of opening the
alms boxes placed in churches over the Christmas season. The contents thereof
which were distributed amongst the poor, by the clergy, the day after Christmas.
Today, Boxing Day is spent with family and friends with lots of food and
sharing of friendship and love. Government buildings and small businesses are
closed but the malls are open and filled with people exchanging gifts or buying
reduced priced Christmas gifts, cards, and decorations.
To keep the tradition of Boxing Day alive, many businesses, organizations,
and families donate their time, services, and money to aid Food Banks and
provide gifts for the poor, or they may choose to help an individual family that
is in need.
What a great extension of the Christmas holiday spirit. You might consider
making this holiday a tradition in your family. No matter where you live the
simple principle of giving to others less fortunate than yourself can be put
into practice.
Are you looking for a unique Christmas gift
for an animal lover. Many of our original animal photos have
been turned into great gift merchandise.
You can search our animal lover gifts
by type of item or by kind of animal.
