Why Boxing Day is called 'Boxing Day'

Boxing Day is a public holiday in Australia, falling on December 26, the day after Christmas. It originated in the United Kingdom and is celebrated around the world.

There are a few theories as to why it is called ‘Boxing Day.' One theory is that the name derived from Britain in the 1830s and signifies the first week day after Christmas, the first possible date postal services can resume including the arrival of packages in boxes.

Alternatively, the name could refer to charity collections that used to take place in Great Britain following Christmas, the money being collected in the box.

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Another theory points to a British custom during which tradesmen would collect Christmas boxes or money as thanks for their services on the first weekday after Christmas.

Others say the name comes from the practice during which wealthy European families would gift their staff boxes filled with Christmas treats following Christmas Day.

In Australia, Boxing Day is about four things, and four things only:

1. Shopping
2. Cricket
3. Sydney to Hobart
4. Movies

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In Australia, Boxing Day is a federal public holiday and some mad cash is spent during ‘Boxing Day Sales’ by those who have money left after the annual Christmas splurge. Shops open early and scenes of thousands of customers streaming through department store doors are broadcast around the country, although these days you’re just as likely to score a bargain on Boxing Day online.

For cricket fans, Boxing Day is all about the Boxing Day test match at Melbourne Cricket Ground between Australia and other national teams touring Australia. Test matches can last for up to five days.

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The Sydney to Hobart yacht race also takes place on Boxing Day in Australia, covering a distance of 630 nautical miles between Sydney Harbour and Hobart in Tasmania.

Boxing Day is also a huge day at the box office in Australia, with big ticket movies opening on December 26.