Boxing Day...

Question

It's a day to give to the less fortunate. Way back during the Victorian era in Britain, servants were allowed time off to visit their families on December 26, since they had to work for their employers' Christmas Day celebrations. It became such a standard practice that in 1871, a new holiday was born. It coincides with St. Stephen's Day, a Christian holiday with similar themes of charity. When Boxing Day falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it's observed on the following Monday.
So why call it Boxing Day?
There are a couple of theories. Some say it stems from when the wealthy would give boxes filled with small gifts, money and Christmas leftovers to their employees to recognize their service. Another theory is that churches put out boxes for people to give money to the poor, and the money was distributed the day after Christmas.
Where do you celebrate Boxing Day?
Wherever you'd like. But it's really recognized in Great Britain and former British colonies, like Canada, Australia and New Zealand

Answer 1

Oops!

I forgot to pack a box for the servants!  

Comments

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Answer 2

I did not know that Boxing Day was only designated a holiday as recently as 1871! It has always seemed strange that the origin of the name is uncertain. 

Comments

Yes...I had no idea why December 26th is called a Boxing Day.

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My friend Winifred, a transplant from London to Vancouver, BC, Canada...she thought the boxing referred to packing up all your new stuff!