Boxing Day in the United Kingdom
26 December is Boxing Day in the United Kingdom, a public holiday celebrated the day after Christmas. It’s a time for relaxation, shopping, sports and spending time with friends and family after the Christmas festivities.
Boxing Day Date for 2025
| Name | Date | Day | Holiday Type | Countries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boxing Day | 26 Dec | Friday | Bank holiday | All |
Are Businesses Closed?
Christmas Day is a bank holiday. All offices, and some businesses and shopping centers are closed. Some big brands run Boxing Day sale.
Are Schools Closed?
Schools are closed throughout the Christmas and only open after the New Year.
History of Boxing Day
Boxing Day has its roots in Victorian England. Traditionally, it was the day when the wealthy gave boxes of gifts, food and money to their servants, tradespeople and the poor as a token of appreciation. Churches also opened their alms boxes for charitable giving. Over time, the holiday evolved into a national day of rest and generosity, and it remains a key part of the festive calendar.
How people celebrate Boxing Day in the UK
1. Shopping and sales
Modern Boxing Day is famous for massive retail sales. Department stores and shopping centres open early, offering significant discounts on clothing, electronics and more. Online retailers also feature special Boxing Day promotions, making it one of the busiest shopping days of the year.
2. Sports and entertainment
Sport plays a major role in the day. Football fans enjoy a full schedule of Premier League and EFL matches, while horse racing enthusiasts attend popular events such as the King George VI Chase at Kempton Park. Some towns still host traditional events like fox hunts or charity fun runs.
3. Family gatherings and relaxation
After the excitement of Christmas Day, Boxing Day offers a slower pace. Families enjoy leftover food, cold meats and mince pies, or head outdoors for countryside walks to shake off the holiday indulgence.
4. Charity and community spirit
True to its origins, many still use Boxing Day as an opportunity to donate to charities or volunteer at local shelters and food banks.
Regional variations across the UK
- England & Wales: Focus on football matches, shopping and family gatherings.
- Scotland: Known as a key part of the festive period leading up to Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve celebrations).
- Northern Ireland: Some areas also refer to it as St. Stephen’s Day and hold local community events.
Similarities with other countries
- Observed on 26 December in most Commonwealth nations
- Associated with shopping sales, sports and relaxation
- Originated from the British tradition of giving "Christmas boxes" to show the care and generosity.
Differences compared to other countries
Winter season
Unlike Australia or New Zealand, Boxing Day in the UK takes place in the heart of winter. Activities are mostly indoors or involve countryside walks rather than beach outings.
Focus on sports and sales
The UK Boxing Day has a stronger focus on professional sports and retail shopping compared to the more outdoor, leisure-oriented celebrations of countries in the Southern Hemisphere.
Traditional foods
Cold cuts, bubble and squeak, and leftover Christmas desserts like trifle or Christmas pudding are commonly enjoyed in British households.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Boxing Day a public holiday in the UK?
Yes. Boxing Day is a public holiday across the United Kingdom. If it falls on a weekend, a substitute day (usually the following Monday) is given as a public holiday.
Are shops open on Boxing Day?
Most major stores open early for Boxing Day sales, although some smaller or family-run shops may remain closed to give staff a rest after Christmas.
What sports are played on Boxing Day?
Football matches and horse racing are the most popular sports on Boxing Day. Many fans also watch the annual rugby fixtures and charity events.