I like to consider myself British in a former life--or maybe in my next life. I *may* have a small obsession with HM the Queen (anyone else sad that "The Crown" is over?), and also love the respect they have for proper tea (london fog latte, anyone?). And of course, the country is rich in history and charm. Both of which I can't resist. So when we started studying Winter Holidays around the world for homeschooling this past month, you can guess which country we started with. I was fascinated to learn about "Boxing Day"! When we think of boxing in the US, red gloves automatically come to mind. But in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, Canada and a few other former British colonies, boxing day is a whole different cup of tea.
What is Boxing Day?
Boxing Day was historically a day designed for servants. Since it falls on the day after Christmas, employers would give their workers the day off to spend with their families, and present them with gifts of appreciation. Deemed a public holiday in 1871, no one knows for certain why it's called "boxing day". One guess is that it is in reference to gift giving (in some type of box) or that the wealthy would fill "boxes" with money and goods for the less fortunate.
Modern Day Boxing Day Traditions
Since year round servants aren't as prevalent as they once were, the typical Boxing Day traditions have since evolved. It seems now that people spend the day with loved ones they didn't otherwise see over the Christmas holidays. Folks enjoy leftover foods, participate in a wide array of sporting events (including hunting and polo), and do some after Christmas shopping.
I also read that parents use this day to "box" up donations and clean up the "boxes" from Christmas, while children are still occupied with new Christmas goodies. Not a bad idea in my book!
I don't know about y'all, but this seems like a holiday I can get on board with. Giving to others, eating leftovers, spending time with loved ones. I always feel like Christmas is over in the blink of an eye anyway (in normal, non-COVID years)--and extra day of celebrating sounds pretty fantastic, right?
If you are in the post-Christmas shopping mood, enjoy 20% off your purchase in our shop today, in honor of Boxing Day!
Do you live in a country where Boxing Day is recognized as a national holiday? What am I missing? How do you celebrate?
Playfully yours,
Amanda