St. Stephen's Day

St. Stephen's Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a public holiday in Belgium, as in many other European countries. It is part of the Christmas festivities and follows Christmas Day. The day is named after Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, and is traditionally a time for family gatherings, relaxation, and continuing the Christmas celebrations. In Belgium, St. Stephen's Day is marked by various local customs and traditions. Many people attend church services to honor Saint Stephen, while others use the day to visit friends and family, exchange gifts, or enjoy festive meals. It is also common for people to take part in winter activities, such as ice skating or enjoying the festive decorations in towns and cities. The holiday provides an opportunity for Belgians to extend the joy of Christmas and spend quality time with loved ones. It is a day of rest and reflection, often accompanied by festive foods and drinks, making it a cherished part of the holiday season in Belgium.