Why is the day after Christmas called Boxing Day?

[Retro]

I hope you had a great Christmas. Now, what better day to explain Boxing Day, than on Boxing Day? Right, listen up kids, here's why:

Boxing Day got its name when Queen Victoria was on the throne in the 1800s and has nothing to do with the sport of boxing.
The name comes from a time when the rich used to box up gifts to give to the poor.
Boxing Day was traditionally a day off for servants - a day when they received a special Christmas box from their masters.
The servants would also go home on Boxing Day to give Christmas boxes to their families.

Now you know. More about this, here:

Why is it called Boxing Day? - CBBC Newsround

Ever wondered how Boxing Day got its name? Find out everything you need to know about the day after Christmas.

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[Tiffany]

I've been playing an online game since 2007, which includes a lot of Canadian friends sending their good wishes for their Boxing day to everyone. Nice to know the whole background of Boxing Day.

 

[aussiefooty]

I think it is recognition of those who wake up from having a heavy day drinking.

 

[Retro]

Yeah, one feels like they've been beaten up!

 

[aussiefooty]

Here in australia we will have the cricket on. Boxing day test match is held in melbourne.