Boxing Day

Boxing Day History

Boxing Day is a public holiday in many countries. Though it originally started as a day when people gave boxed gifts to their employees or the less fortunate, today it is a day spent with family and friends, either relaxing or engaging in recreational activities. In many parts of the world, it is also a day for shopping, as businesses offer sales and discounts.

In Nigeria, Boxing Day has a rich history that can be traced back to the years of British colonial rule. As a former British colony, Nigeria inherited several British customs and traditions, including the observance of Boxing Day. For Nigerians, the day is seen as an extension of the Christmas celebrations, giving them more time to spend with family and friends, visit places of interest, and partake in various festive activities.

On Boxing Day in Nigeria, people engage in various activities such as attending sporting events, music concerts, and visiting recreational centers. Families often continue the sharing of Christmas meals with relatives, neighbours, and the less fortunate. Additionally, some Nigerians use the day to give back to their communities by providing support to the needy and helping with charitable causes. Boxing Day in Nigeria takes place annually on December 26th, and it is recognized as a public holiday, providing a much-needed break and an opportunity to unwind and enjoy the festivities.

Top facts about Boxing Day

• 26 December is also St Stephen’s Day; commemorating the first Christian martyr Saint Stephen. According to the Acts of the Apostles Stephen was a deacon accused of blasphemy for his teachings. He was stoned to death and is now venerated as a saint in the Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox churches.
• Boxing Day is one of the 6 bank holidays in the UK. The others are Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter, Whit Monday and the August Bank Holiday.
• The origin of Boxing Day in Nigeria is related to the tradition of giving boxed gifts to servants and tradespeople (such as milkmen, bakers, and delivery drivers) as a way of thanking them for their service throughout the year.
• On Boxing Day, Nigerian families come together to celebrate with traditional meals that include dishes like jollof rice, pounded yam, egusi soup, suya, and fried plantains.

In the News and Trending in Nigeria for Boxing Day

Boxing Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Watch some sport! There is top-tier football and rugby throughout the weekend and in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa cricket Test matches begin. The King George VI Chase, a horse race at Kempton Park also runs; it is known as the 2nd most prestigious race in the calendar.
• In the UK, it is tradition to take a walk in the crisp winter air and enjoy the outdoors. If you happen to be in the UK try the Snowdonia range (Wales), the Lake District (northern England), the Peak District (the English Midlands) or just round the local streets. You’ve probably eaten a lot over the last few days, so maybe go easy.
• Visit the Nigerian National Museum to explore the country's rich history and culture. The museum houses impressive collections of archaeology, ethnography, and traditional art.
• Many Nigerians like to take advantage of Boxing Day sales in shopping malls and markets such as the Balogun Market in Lagos.