Happy Boxing Day!

Today, 26 December, the day after Christmas, is "Boxing Day."  It is a public holiday in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other Commonwealth nations.  When Christmas Day occurs on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, the Boxing Day holiday will generally occur on the subsequent Monday.  In 2010, because Christmas Day, itself a holiday, occurred on Saturday, the public holiday for Christmas occurs on Monday, 27 December and Boxing Day falls on Tuesday, 28 December.  But traditionally, "Boxing Day" refers to 26 December.

In its original context, "box" referred to gifts or gratuities received at Christmas.  But because the day was also traditionally associated with sporting events in village celebrations, boxing prizefights are scheduled in some countries.  Rugby and football (US soccer) matches are also scheduled, along with the King George VI Chase, the most prestigious chase in England after the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

Although it has now become a major commercial event, with some deducing that the "boxing" reference means repackaging of unwanted Christmas gifts for return to the shops, the traditional "Christmas box" was generally a wooden or clay container where gifts or treats were placed.  On 26 December, the box was opened and the gifts were shared with the poor. 

Instead of being a major shopping day, as it has now largely become, Boxing Day sets historical precedent for the sharing of bounty and blessings.  Thus, working at foodbanks, taking up collections of clothing and other items to assist the needy and serving the community in general are all worthy Boxing Day activities.

Whatever you choose to do today, please enjoy the day in good cheer!