Although Christmas Day is the main event in the UK festive calendar, the day after has its own name and traditions – but what is Boxing Day, exactly?
What is Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is a public holiday which is traditionally centred around charity, sport, family time and, in more recent years, shopping! It is celebrated throughout the UK and some Commonwealth countries.
When is Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is the day after Christmas, 26th December. If the day falls on a weekend, the public holiday is moved to early the following week so no one misses out.
Is Boxing Day related to the sport of boxing?
No – despite the name, it is not connected to boxing matches, fighters or the boxing world at all, but the confusion is understandable!
Why is it called ‘Boxing Day’?
Starting from the Victorian era, Boxing Day was typically a day when the wealthy in society used to box up gifts for the poorer members of their community. Servants were given the day off to celebrate (after working on Christmas Day itself) and given a Christmas Box by their masters. Churches also played their part, collecting money from their congregation throughout the year – their collection money box was then opened on Christmas Day and handed to the local poor the following day.
What’s the difference between Christmas Day and Boxing Day in the UK?
Christmas Day is usually for family gatherings, gift-giving and festive meals. Boxing Day, however, is more about getting out of the house.
Are there Boxing Day traditions?
There are several Boxing Day traditions in modern times, from sports and sales to leftovers, wintry walks and swimming.
Boxing Day sales: As soon as Christmas is over, retailers slash their prices. Boxing Day sales have become one of the biggest shopping moments in the year in the UK, with some online retailers even starting at the stroke of midnight on 26th December. Whether you hop online or head out to iconic shopping spots including Oxford Street, Westfield, and Bicester Village, you’re bound to find a bargain. And don’t forget, the sales aren’t just one day – plenty last through January!
Eating leftovers: Although this isn’t any kind of official tradition, many Brits will prepare too much food for Christmas Day, leaving them with a myriad of leftovers. Some choose to make sandwiches and others may make a turkey soup, but whatever they decide, it’s bound to taste fantastic.
Boxing Day football matches: One of the most watched sports days of the year, many families either brave the cold to watch a match in person or get comfy on the sofa for a day of festive football. This Boxing Day football tradition sees teams from the Premier League, Championship, League One and Two head on to the pitch – with so many games on, be sure to plan any travel accordingly.
Boxing Day dips: While the UK may not have the warmest waves, many people embrace a fresh swim on Boxing Day as a way to shake off the old year, dive into the new and raise money for charities. Hundreds of spectators turn out to watch the swims, with some swimming clubs keeping the tradition up for 10, 20, or even 100+ years. The oldest swimming club in Britain, The Serpentine Swimming Club, is based in London’s Hyde Park and also holds a Christmas Morning swim called the Christmas Day Race for the Peter Pan Cup, held every year since 1864.
Boxing Day Walks: Many see Boxing Day as the perfect time for a festive stroll to shake off any post-turkey dinner sleepiness, whether it’s a stroll through scenic countryside or stunning coastlines. If you’re in London you can take a walk through one of the Royal Parks or one of the many sprawling Commons in south London. Looking to go further afield? Areas such as the Cotswolds, Cliffs of Dover, and more are renowned for their beauty, and always worth the visit.
What’s open on Boxing Day in London?
As Boxing Day is a public holiday, remember that although larger retailers may be open, many smaller businesses are closed, with restaurants, tourist attractions and public transport running reduced hours or services. Planning ahead is essential, but there’s still plenty to do in London and beyond!
- Go to the theatre: Many West End shows and Pantomimes still run on Boxing Day, including Wicked, The Mousetrap, The Lion King, and more.
- Have fun ice skating: Plenty of outdoor ice rinks will be open, including those at Somerset House, Hampton Court Palace, and Battersea Power Station.
- Christmas lights: With the festive light displays still up until early in the new year, take in the glittering displays. You can even do it in style on our Christmas Lights Afternoon Tea Bus with PG Tips!
- Shop ’til you drop: Head out to Oxford Street, Westfield or even Bicester Village to take advantage of the Boxing Day sales.
