Boxing Day 2025 falls on Friday, December 26, the day after Christmas. Celebrated in countries like the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, Boxing Day is a public holiday associated with relaxation, family time, sporting events, and post-Christmas shopping deals.
But why is it called Boxing Day? What are its origins and how is it celebrated in different countries? Let’s explore the meaning, history, and modern significance of Boxing Day 2025.
Boxing Day Information
| Event | Details |
| Name of Festival | Boxing Day 2025 |
| Date | Friday, 26 December 2025 |
| Day | Friday |
| Significance | Traditionally a day for giving to the less fortunate; post-Christmas sales and sports events |
| Observed In | United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other Commonwealth countries |
| Type of Holiday | Public Holiday (in many countries) |
| Celebrations | Shopping discounts, charity events, family gatherings, sports matches |
| Frequency | Annual |
When is Boxing Day in 2025?
Boxing Day 2025 will be observed on Friday, December 26.
It is celebrated every year on the day after Christmas, regardless of the weekday it falls on. If December 26 is a Saturday or Sunday, the holiday is often observed on the following Monday in many countries.
What is the Meaning of Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is a day rooted in British tradition, historically associated with giving boxes of food, gifts, or money to servants, tradespeople, or the poor. Today, the term has evolved to reflect a variety of post-Christmas customs, from charitable giving to massive shopping discounts.
What is the History and Origin of Boxing Day?
The origin of Boxing Day dates back to Victorian England, when it was customary for employers to give their workers “Christmas boxes” — small gifts or bonuses — the day after Christmas. Churches also opened donation boxes to support the needy.
The name “Boxing Day” refers to these boxes of goodwill — not the sport of boxing!
Which Countries Celebrate Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is recognized as a public holiday in several countries that were part of the British Commonwealth. Here's how it’s observed around the world:
United Kingdom
Public holiday across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Major football matches, horse racing events, and shopping sales are popular.
Canada
A statutory holiday in most provinces.
Known for Boxing Day sales, similar to Black Friday in the U.S.
Australia
Public holiday with big Boxing Day cricket matches and retail discounts.
The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is also a Boxing Day tradition.
New Zealand
Public holiday
Huge retail sales and summer outdoor events mark the occasion.
Why is it Called Boxing Day?
The term "Boxing Day" comes from the old British tradition of giving boxed gifts to service workers and the less fortunate. Churches also used to open their alms boxes on this day.
So, it has nothing to do with boxing gloves or the sport. Instead, it’s about compassion, generosity, and giving back.
What Are Boxing Day Sales & Shopping Traditions?
Boxing Day sales 2025 are expected to attract millions of shoppers looking for post-Christmas bargains, especially in:
- Electronics
- Clothing & fashion
- Home appliances
- Holiday clearance items
- Major online and offline retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and Marks & Spencer typically
Sports & Events on Boxing Day
- Boxing Day is also known for being a big day for sports:
- In the UK, Premier League football matches are a tradition.
- In Australia, the Boxing Day Test match at the MCG is a national event.
- Horse racing and yacht races are also held in many places.
Is Boxing Day a Public Holiday?
Yes, in many countries.
| Country | Public Holiday? | Notes |
| UK | Yes | Most businesses closed or have reduced hours |
| Canada | Yes (varies) | Holiday status depends on province |
| Australia | Yes | Celebrated with cricket and shopping |
| New Zealand | Yes | Part of the summer holiday season |
| South Africa | Yes | Called the Day of Goodwill |
Boxing Day vs Black Friday: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Boxing Day | Black Friday |
| Date | December 26 | Day after U.S. Thanksgiving |
| Origin | British tradition | American consumerism |
| Purpose | Post-Christmas sales | Pre-Christmas sales |
| Type of Deals | Clearance & inventory markdowns | Early holiday shopping deals |
While Black Friday is focused on gifting, Boxing Day is about clearing stock and rewarding oneself post-Christmas.
Conclusion: Boxing Day 2025, falling on Friday, December 26, is more than just a post-Christmas day off. From historical traditions of generosity to modern-day shopping sprees and sporting events, it’s a day full of meaning and celebration across the globe.
Whether you're scoring a great deal online, attending a football match, or simply spending time with loved ones, Boxing Day is a day to reflect, give, and enjoy.