Boxing Day 2026 — How Many Days Until Boxing Day?

About Boxing Day

Boxing Day is a public holiday observed on 26 December in the United Kingdom, as well as Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and many other Commonwealth nations. Its origins are disputed — the most widely cited explanation is that it was the day on which wealthy employers gave their servants a "Christmas box" (gift box) as a day off to celebrate with their own families.

Other origin theories suggest the name comes from the tradition of churches opening their alms boxes on 26 December to distribute donations to the poor. Whatever its origin, Boxing Day has been a public holiday in the UK since the Bank Holidays Act of 1871.

In modern Britain, Boxing Day is known for three things: Premier League and EFL football fixtures (making it one of the most-watched football days of the year), massive retail sales (the Boxing Day sales are considered the British equivalent of Black Friday), and eating leftover turkey sandwiches. In the sporting world, Boxing Day also traditionally features horse racing at Kempton Park and test cricket during the Australian summer.

Boxing Day falls on 26 December — the day after Christmas Day
It has been a UK public holiday since the Bank Holidays Act of 1871
Premier League Boxing Day fixtures consistently attract the largest TV audiences of the football season
The Boxing Day sales rival Black Friday as the UK's biggest retail shopping event
If 26 December falls on a weekend, the public holiday is moved to the next working day

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Boxing Day?

Boxing Day is always on 26 December. If it falls on a Saturday or Sunday, the public holiday is moved to the next working Monday or Tuesday.

Is Boxing Day a public holiday in the UK?

Yes — Boxing Day is a public holiday in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. It is also observed in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and many Caribbean and African Commonwealth nations.

Why is it called Boxing Day?

The most popular explanation is that it was the day employers gave "Christmas boxes" (gifts) to servants. Another theory links it to church alms boxes opened to give to the poor on St Stephen's Day.

What is there to do on Boxing Day?

Watch football (Premier League fixtures), attend the Boxing Day sales, visit family, go to a horse race, or eat Christmas leftovers. In Commonwealth countries: cricket, beach, and barbecues.