This is a public holiday in Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and South Africa (where it is called the "Day of Goodwill"). It is usually celebrated on Dec. 26th or soon after. For the modern observance, retail stores offer deep price cuts on a number of items. However, it was traditionally a day when the English gave a Christmas box to the less fortunate the day after Christmas.
Recommended Resources
Find Biblical references to giving and benevolence as well as information about this holiday.
http://www.annieshomepage.com/boxingday.html
Profiles this observance along with information about banking holidays, church alms boxes and the day after Christmas.
http://www.factmonster.com/spot/boxingday1.html
Publishes a brief history and overview of customs practiced on Boxing Day in different countries.
http://www.whychristmas.com/customs/boxingday.shtml
Woodlands Junior High: Boxing Day
Introduces an overview of this holiday as well as information about Boxing Day hunts, popular family activities, shopping and traditions like the hunting of the wren.
http://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/customs/Xmas/boxingday.html
