What date is Boxing Day celebrated?

Boxing Day is celebrated on December 26, the day after Christmas Day.

The holiday originated in the United Kingdom and is observed in many Commonwealth countries, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of the Caribbean and Africa. Its name is commonly linked to Christmas boxes—gifts, money, or provisions given to servants, workers, and people in need.

Another tradition connects the date with church alms boxes opened after Christmas and distributed to the poor. The historical origins are not completely settled, but charity and service are central themes in many explanations of the holiday.

December 26 is also Saint Stephen’s Day in several Christian traditions. When December 26 falls on a weekend, some countries move the official public or bank holiday to a weekday, but the calendar date associated with Boxing Day remains December 26.