Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop, Score Goals, and Unbox Goodies on December 26th!
Boxing Day, observed on December 26th in various countries, is a day that carries its unique charm and traditions. From the excitement of post-Christmas sales to the tranquility of leisurely outdoor walks and the exhilaration of sporting events, Boxing Day offers something for everyone.Â
It’s a public holiday and great for relaxation, giving back, or simply enjoying quality time with friends and family.
This article delves into the myriad ways people worldwide celebrate and make the most of Boxing Day, encapsulating the spirit of this special occasion and what you can do on Boxing Day largely depends on your preferences, cultural background, and location.
Here are some common things to do for Boxing Day:
- Shopping: Boxing Day is known for its post-Christmas sales, making it an excellent day to find discounts and deals on a wide range of products. Many people enjoy shopping for discounted items on this day.
- Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy the outdoors, consider going for a walk, hike, or even a winter picnic. Some regions also have special events like charity walks or runs on Boxing Day.
- Sporting Events: Boxing Day is famous for sporting events, particularly in countries like the UK and Australia. You can watch or attend a football (soccer) match, rugby game, or other sports events on this day.
- Movie Marathon: Enjoy a movie or TV show marathon with friends or family. It’s a great way to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
- Volunteer and Charity Work: Many spend Boxing Day giving back to their communities. You can volunteer at a local shelter, food bank or participate in charity events.
- Visit Friends and Family: If you have yet to have a chance to see all your loved ones during the Christmas festivities, Boxing Day is a great opportunity to visit friends and family.
- Relax and Recover: After the hectic holiday season, some people prefer a quiet day at home to rest and recover.
- Explore Local Traditions: Learn about and participate in local Boxing Day traditions or customs, as different countries and regions may have unique ways of celebrating the day.
- Exchanging Gifts: In some cultures, Boxing Day is a day for giving or exchanging gifts, similar to Christmas Day. You can use this time to share presents with friends and family.
TIP: Remember that the way this holiday is observed can vary widely depending on where you are located. Some countries, like the United States, do not traditionally celebrate it so it may be just another regular day for some people. However, if you are in a place where the holiday is significant, you can choose from these activities to make the most of it.
Did you know?
Boxing Day has become a significant shopping holiday in recent years, known for its massive sales and discounts, particularly in countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Many major retailers and shopping centers open early, and people often queue outside stores in the early morning hours to take advantage of these deals.
In the digital age, online shopping has also played a crucial role in this holiday’s sales, with e-commerce platforms offering substantial discounts and promotions, allowing shoppers to conveniently browse and purchase items from the comfort of their homes. This has led to the coining of the term “Cyber Boxing Day” to describe the online shopping frenzy on December 26th.
A little history:
Boxing Day has a historical connection to the act of giving and charity. In medieval England, the day after Christmas was traditionally a time for employers to provide their employees with a “Christmas box” filled with gifts, money, or leftover food as a token of appreciation. This gesture marked the reversal of roles, as employees could relax and celebrate with their families while the employers provided for them.
Over time, this practice of giving “Christmas boxes” to the less fortunate evolved into a day when people traditionally give to charity, visit those in need, or contribute to various charitable causes, continuing the spirit of generosity and giving that has its roots in this historic tradition.
