Christmas is here, and it is time to be merry. While we celebrate Christmas on December 25, there is also one special day which falls on next day of Christmas, known as ‘The Boxing Day’. The day might be less known for people who rarely celebrate Christmas. Or in India, people would remember it as India men’s cricket team will be playing against Australia on December 26 in 3rd Test which is named as ‘Boxing Day’ Test.
But what really is the day all about? Here are some unknown facts about ‘Boxing Day’, the 2nd day of Christmas.
What is the day all about?
‘Boxing Day’ is celebrated every year on December 26. The day is mostly celebrated in foreign lands and is declared as a public holiday in most of the countries. There are a number of theories which define the origin of the day. In Britain, it is a custom for the tradesmen as they would have to wait for their master (boss) on Christmas day, the servants (employees) were then allowed to visit their family. The servants would be given some boxes to take back home with gifts, bonus or some leftover food which they would share it with their family.
The ‘Boxing Day’ is all about spending time with friends and family and finishing all Christmas leftovers.
Why is it named ‘Boxing Day’?
As per a report in Mentalfloss.com, the name ‘Boxing Day’ originated from a Church’s activity of opening the alms boxes, a day after the Christmas. The British employees started following the same as they receive gifts or bonus on the next day of Christmas which they would open with their families.
What to do on this day?
The day is declared as a holiday in many countries and it is all about spending time with families, friends and ‘shopping’. As per the new tradition, the day is spent shopping. Nowadays, different sales have come up which last till New Year. Earlier, the sale used to start from post-New Year celebrations.
