What is Boxing Day

Boxing Day is a holiday that happens the day immediately after Christmas, December 26, and is celebrated by people from nations that are members, both current and former, if the Commonwealth of Nations. However, the occasion should not be mistaken by its literal meaning because Boxing Day is far from it. Since it is celebrated right after Christmas, Boxing Day is full of activities and happy tunes.

Why was it called Boxing Day is there is no grueling bloody competition going on during that day? The exact etymology of the phrase is still vague. Many people even in countries celebrating it do not know the meaning or the origin of the word. However, there are several theories battling on the battlefield regarding the “Boxing Day”. In United Kingdom, it has been a tradition to gather the so called “Christmas Boxes” a day or a week after Christmas day. The boxes may contain money, gifts, toys, clothes, or any other thing that will help the less fortunate. Also, this acts as a sort of thanksgiving activity for the blessings that each family in the UK received. The day when tradesmen collect these Christmas Boxes became known as Boxing Day.

However, not all countries celebrate this eventful and joyous day. This is because only present members and former members of the Commonwealth of Nations are known to hold such a day. Countries such as United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, Ireland, and Australia participate in this event. Boxing Day can be a bank or public holiday and will also merit a non-working day for all those employed. In United States, Boxing Day is celebrated much like they do on a regular Thanksgiving Day; that is, Americans shop and bond with their preferred loved ones. Because of this, Boxing Day also marks the day when retail stores, specialty stores, and shopping malls offer discounts and promotions. In fact, many U.S retailers open very early during this day and dramatically drop their prices or offer tremendous promos to attract more customers.

Other activity that you can do on a Boxing Day is to hunt foxes; well, that is what they do before. However, since hunting foxes is banned today, that option is eradicated. You can shop and spend your money on valuables and some wants, stay at home and eat left-over foods from your Christmas party or meal, bond with friends or family over a nice move and popcorns in a theater, go out to the beach or have picnic with loved ones, or spend the day as it was originally meant to. You can try and share your blessings with people who are less fortunate in life than you. Make your time worthwhile and meaningful while having fun is the true spirit of Boxing Day.

Though the origin of Boxing Day is still not clear, it is still a very nice event to participate to. You can choose one of the many activities that are available for the special day. What is important is that you have fun.