A day after Christmas, the biggest festival for Christians all over the world which commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ and indulging in festive joy, celebrations and get-togethers, Boxing Day is about giving money, gifts, and donations to the poor, in service positions, or those in need. The day has now evolved to become part of extended Christmas festivities and many people choose to shop for deals on the day. Boxing Day originated in the United Kingdom and is celebrated in several Commonwealth nations including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Here's all you want to know about the day and how it is celebrated.

When is Boxing Day 2024?
Boxing Day is celebrated annually on December 26, a day after Christmas festivities on December 25. This year it falls on a Thursday.

History of Boxing Day The tradition of giving money and gifts to those in need or in service roles dates back to the Middle Ages and may have its roots in the late Roman and early Christian era. During this time, alms boxes placed in churches were used to collect offerings tied to the Feast of Saint Stephen, which coincides with Boxing Day, the second day of Christmastide. In some areas, it was customary to open these alms boxes on Boxing Day and distribute the contents to the poor. In Britain, the tradition evolved into tradesmen collecting "Christmas boxes" of money or gifts from clients as a token of appreciation for their services throughout the year, a practice noted in Samuel Pepys' diary in 1663. Additionally, it was customary for servants of wealthy households to visit their families on the day after Christmas, taking with them boxes from their employers filled with gifts, bonuses, and leftover food.

There are two possible origins of the day. While some believe the name is derived from the opening of alm boxes kept in churches for the collection of donations to help poor and needy. Others believe that it is related to the boxes of gifts given to employees or servants on the day after Christmas to reward them for their effort during the Christmas Day celebrations. They were also given bonuses. On Boxing Day, the employees were given an off so that they could relax and have a celebration of their own.

In modern days, bonuses and gifts are still given to employees, but before Christmas instead of the day after it.

How Boxing Day is celebrated Shopping
The celebrations have evolved over time and the modern-day tradition is to go for shopping and avail of big discounts during this time. People flock to stores for discounts and deals, while others choose online shopping.

Sporting event
In the UK, Boxing Day is famous for Premier League football matches. In Australia, the Boxing Day Test Match is a key sporting event, played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Horse races are another popular Boxing Day activity in some countries.

Charity
On this day, many people donate clothes, money and other essential items to the poor to celebrate the spirit of Boxing Day.

Outdoor activities
In many countries like Canada and the UK, some use Boxing Day as an opportunity to go hiking, take long walks, or participate in polar bear swims.