Around this time of the year, Christmas is the major highlight! However, in Guyana and some other countries, we celebrate another holiday, immediately after- Boxing Day. Here are some of the things you need to know about this holiday:
When is Boxing Day?
December 26th, is Boxing Day and is a holiday celebrated in Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries. This year, in Guyana, Boxing Day has been declared to be on the 27th since Christmas would be seen as a held over holiday from it’s Sunday date of the 25th, as such officially the 26th. Boxing Day originated in England in the middle of the nineteenth century under Queen Victoria. For years in which the holiday falls on a weekend, the celebration is moved to make sure workers still get a day off (except in Canada, where it remains Dec. 26) In the UK it’s classed as a Bank Holiday.
Why Is Boxing Day Called Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is so called because it was the custom on that day for tradesmen to collect their Christmas boxes or gifts in return for good and reliable service throughout the year. Boxing Day is also St. Stephen’s Day. St Stephen was a little known saint who achieved eternal fame by being the first Christian to be martyred for his faith by being stoned to death shortly after Christ’s crucifixion. He’s also named in the Christmas song Good King Wenceslas
How do we spend Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is spent with family and friends at open gatherings with lots of food, fun, friendship and love. Food on boxing day usually includes leftover turkey from the day before. This can be eaten in sandwiches or as a meal with vegetables, roast potatoes and all the trimmings. Some people like to have cold ham in a buffet style so the cook can also have a rest and spend time with the family.
