Boxing Day
2031Friday, December 26
Quick Facts
- Date
- Friday, December 26, 2031
- Observed in
- Austria, Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, BS +31 more
- Type
- Christian Holiday
What is Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated on December 26th, the day after Christmas. It is observed primarily in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth nations. In many European countries, this day is known as St. Stephen's Day, honoring the first Christian martyr.
The holiday has evolved from its charitable origins into a day associated with sporting events, shopping sales, and spending time with extended family. For many, it marks the continuation of Christmas festivities.
While the exact origins of the name are debated, Boxing Day has become one of the most popular shopping days of the year, with significant retail sales rivaling Black Friday in many countries.
When is Boxing Day 2031?
Boxing Day is on Friday, December 26 in 2031. Check the dates and days for other years in the table below.
History & Origin
The origins of Boxing Day are somewhat unclear, with several competing theories. The most widely accepted explanation relates to the tradition of giving boxes of gifts or money to servants and tradespeople the day after Christmas.
In medieval times, churches would open their alms boxes on December 26th and distribute the contents to the poor. This practice gave the day its name. Servants, who had to work on Christmas Day serving their wealthy employers, were given the following day off and sent home with boxes of gifts and leftover food.
Another theory suggests the name comes from the tradition of apprentices collecting money from customers in earthenware boxes, which they would break open on December 26th.
St. Stephen's Day, the alternative name used in many countries, commemorates St. Stephen, a deacon in the early Christian Church who became the first Christian martyr around 34 AD.
How It's Celebrated
Shopping Sales: Boxing Day has become synonymous with major retail sales. Stores offer significant discounts, and shoppers queue from early morning to grab bargains.
Sporting Events: In the UK, Boxing Day is famous for football (soccer) matches, horse racing meets, and rugby fixtures. These sporting traditions date back to the 19th century.
Hunting Traditions: The traditional Boxing Day hunt remains controversial but continues in modified form in the UK.
Family Gatherings: Many families use Boxing Day to visit relatives not seen on Christmas Day, continuing the festive celebrations.
Leftover Meals: Traditional Boxing Day fare includes turkey sandwiches, bubble and squeak (fried leftover vegetables), and cold cuts from Christmas dinner.
Pantomimes: In the UK, attending a pantomime (a comedic theatrical production) is a popular Boxing Day activity for families.
Wren Day (Ireland): In Ireland, the tradition of Wren Day involves groups going door-to-door in costumes, playing music for money.
Charitable Giving: The original spirit of Boxing Day lives on through charity donations and volunteer work.
Where It's Observed
Boxing Day is a public holiday in 31 countries. In 2031, it falls on Friday, December 26.
Fun Facts
- The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, which starts on Boxing Day, covers 628 nautical miles
- In South Africa, Boxing Day was renamed Day of Goodwill in 1994
- The English Premier League has held Boxing Day fixtures since 1860
- In the Bahamas, Boxing Day is celebrated with Junkanoo, a colorful street parade
- The famous Carol Good King Wenceslas is set on the Feast of Stephen (Boxing Day)
- Australian retail sales on Boxing Day exceed $2.5 billion annually
- The Boxing Day Test cricket match in Melbourne regularly attracts over 70,000 spectators
- In Ireland, Wren Day traditions date back to Celtic times and the legend of the wren betraying Irish soldiers
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Boxing Day?
The most accepted theory is that the name comes from the tradition of giving boxes of gifts to servants and tradespeople the day after Christmas. Another theory relates to churches opening their alms boxes to distribute to the poor on this day.
Is Boxing Day the same as St. Stephen's Day?
Yes, December 26th is both Boxing Day and St. Stephen's Day, though different names are used in different countries. Boxing Day is more common in Commonwealth nations, while St. Stephen's Day is used in Ireland and many European countries.
What countries celebrate Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is primarily celebrated in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth nations. As St. Stephen's Day, it is observed in Ireland, Germany, Austria, and many other European countries.
Why are there sales on Boxing Day?
Boxing Day sales originated from the tradition of shops being closed on Christmas but reopening the next day. Retailers began offering discounts to clear Christmas stock and attract shoppers with holiday money.
Is Boxing Day a public holiday?
Yes, Boxing Day is a public holiday in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many Commonwealth nations. If December 26th falls on a weekend, a substitute day off is usually given.
What sports are played on Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is famous for sporting events including Premier League football matches in England, Test cricket in Australia and South Africa, horse racing at Kempton Park and Leopardstown, and rugby union fixtures.
Travel Inspiration
Planning a trip around Boxing Day? Explore our travel guides for destinations where this holiday is celebrated.
