The tradition of Boxing Day is believed to have originated in Britain during Queen Victoria's reign ( between 1837 and 1901) , under the reign of Queen Victoria.
Its name is derived from the practice of giving "Christmas boxes" to servants, tradespeople, and the less fortunate. These boxes were filled with money, gifts, or leftovers from the Christmas feast and were distributed as a gesture of gratitude and goodwill.
December 26th was chosen because it coincided with St. Stephen's Day, a Christian holiday commemorating St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr known for his acts of charity. This blending of secular and religious traditions laid the foundation for Boxing Day as we know it.
The concept of Boxing Day was initiated by the wealthy households of Victorian England. In an era where servants often worked tirelessly on Christmas Day to ensure their employers' celebrations went smoothly, Boxing Day provided an opportunity for them to spend time with their own families.
On this day, employers showed their appreciation by presenting their staff with boxes containing gifts, food, or monetary bonuses. Similarly, tradespeople who had served households throughout the year were also given Christmas boxes as a token of thanks.
Over time, the essence of Boxing Day evolved, especially as societal structures shifted. While the original tradition of giving Christmas boxes has largely faded, the day has retained its association with generosity and sharing.
In many countries, it has become a public holiday marked by various customs. In the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, Boxing Day is a time for families to relax, enjoy leftovers from Christmas dinner, and engage in outdoor activities. Sporting events, particularly football matches and cricket games, are a significant part of the day's festivities, drawing large crowds and fostering a sense of community.
Boxing Day has also become synonymous with shopping in modern times. In much the same way that Black Friday follows Thanksgiving in the United States, Boxing Day is known for its sales and discounts.
Beyond the sales and sports, the heart of Boxing Day remains tied to its spirit of generosity. Charitable acts and community service are still common, with many people using the day to volunteer, donate to those in need, or spend time with loved ones.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/people/article/discover-the-meaning-behind-boxing-day
