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In the United Kingdom, the day after Christmas is called Boxing Day, and it is a public holiday. The tradition dates back to the medieval feudal era. On the first working day after Christmas, servants would bring boxes to their employers’ homes, and in return, the employers would place coins inside as a special year-end gift. This practice of receiving gifts in boxes is how the day got its name, and it also represents the nobles’ appreciation for their servants and workers. On this day, churches also distribute relief goods and food boxes to those in need. According to tradition, churches open the donation boxes on Christmas Day, and the contributions are distributed to the poor and the lower-class citizens on the following day.

Nowadays, Boxing Day has become more of a shopping holiday. In the UK, stores offer big clearance sales on the day after Christmas, and many retailers even stretch the event into a full “Boxing Week.” Although the focus of the holiday has shifted, its underlying significance still represents appreciation for the hardworking individuals who do not have the day off during the festive season.