Boxing Day Facts and History

Boxing Day is the most infamous of all commercial holidays. This occasion is a legal holiday in many countries including Great Britain, Canada, and New Zealand. Boxing Day strives as the secular symbol of the holiday shopping season. The American equivalent of this day is called Black Friday, though it is not a public holiday. For a consumer's holiday, Boxing Day actually has a very long history. This little quiz offers some fun Boxing Day facts and tidbits.

1. What is Boxing Day?
A: This special occasion is created to encourage consumers to spend. On this day, most stores in the observant countries offer deep discounts and special deals. Like Black Friday, stores on Boxing Day often open very early in anticipation of a massive rush of shoppers looking for good deals.

2. When is Boxing Day?
A: Boxing Day takes place on December 26 or the day after Christmas. It is also coincided with St. Stephen's Day. According to Christian traditions, St. Stephen was the first Christian martyr. One would wonder how the Saint feels about Boxing Day.

3. Other than shopping, what are some major activities that usually take place on Boxing Day?
A: Since this is a public holiday in some countries, recreational events like family picnic, sports, and concerts often dominate the day. For some people, it is a day of rest as the hectic Christmas holiday season is drawing to a close.

4. Is Boxing Day is major holiday in the United States?
A: Boxing Day is generally observed by countries with an Anglo heritage. Although the U.S. was a former British colony, the country no longer shares many of the British traditions. Boxing Day is nothing more than a passive reference in America.

5. What does the term "Boxing" symbolize?
A: It probably has something to do with gift boxes, but the real origin is unknown.