Unpacking the Mystery: Why the Day After Christmas is Known as Boxing Day

As Christmas Day unfolds, attention in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth countries turns to Boxing Day, which falls on December 26. Despite its name, the holiday has no connection to the sport of boxing or the act of returning Christmas gifts.

Historically, Boxing Day is thought to have originated as a day when boxes containing small gifts and monetary tips were given to household servants and employees who worked on Christmas Day. This practice served as a token of gratitude for their dedication throughout the year. While its exact origins remain ambiguous, records indicate that the celebration has been part of British culture since at least the 1700s.

Over the years, Boxing Day has transformed into an opportunity for families and friends to come together following Christmas. In the U.K. and other Commonwealth nations, the day has gained prominence as one of the busiest shopping days, paralleling Black Friday in the United States. Moreover, it has grown synonymous with soccer, with eight Premier League matches scheduled for this year’s Boxing Day.

Former soccer player Robbie Earle noted in a 2019 commentary that Boxing Day represents “the biggest game of the Premier League season.” This cultural significance underlines the day’s role in uniting sports fans and communities alike.