What is Boxing Day?

Hometown » Canada

Posted: 12/30/2002 4:34:12 AM EDT

Sorry, I'm just an ignorant southerner. I see it on some calendars, but don't know what it is.

I figured after Christmas the in-laws are really getting on your nerves. That's when the boxing starts.

So, I guess my question is; is it bare knuckle or do you wear gloves?

Thanks
Max

Posted: 12/30/2002 4:42:40 AM EDT

[#1]

It was originally the day English lords would give the servants off to visit their families after Xmas. They would give them a box containing money or a "tip" for their services.

Today it's a day to shop.

Posted: 12/30/2002 5:06:50 PM EDT

[#2]

Green Furniture has it right. As if the month before Christmas wasn't enough..some people will save money and go out the day after Christmas shopping. The stores are nuts because they mark stuff down drastically. 40 to 50% off is the norm.
You couldn't get me in a mall Boxing day at gun point!!!

Posted: 12/30/2002 5:32:15 PM EDT

[#3]

Do you guys celebrate Guy Fawkes day or is that just in the UK?

Posted: 12/30/2002 6:11:46 PM EDT

[#4]

And, in some cases, the servants and gentility exchange places for the day.

Posted: 12/30/2002 6:43:02 PM EDT

[#5]

I missed something. A friend of mine lived in England for several years (his "mum" still lives there). According to him, "Boxing Day" is the day that you box up all the old crap in your house to give to the poor.

Posted: 1/1/2003 4:58:28 PM EDT

[#6]

Quoted:
Do you guys celebrate Guy Fawkes day or is that just in the UK?

Nope. We don't here.

Boxing Day originated in England in the middle of the nineteenth century under Queen Victoria. December 26th became a holiday as boxes were filled with gifts and money for servants and tradespeople.

Also, poor people carried empty boxes from door to door, and the boxes were soon filled with food, Christmas sweets, and money. Parents gave their children small gifts such as, oranges, handkerchiefs, and socks. People also placed old clothing that they didn't need anymore in boxes, and they were given to those in need.

Today, Boxing Day is a holiday in the United Kingdom, Canada, and many other Commonwealth nations. It is spent with family and friends at open gatherings with lots of food, fun, and the sharing of friendship and love.

While government buildings and small businesses are closed, the malls are filled with people either exchanging gifts or buying reduced priced Christmas gifts, cards, and decorations.

Throughout the Christmas season, many organizations follow the original tradition of Boxing Day by donating their time, energy, and money to fill the Food Bank, provide gifts for children who live in poverty, or to help an individual family who is in great need at the time.

Got this off the net..if you can believe anything your read there!

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - What is Boxing Day?

Hometown » Canada

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