St. Stephen's Day


Country United Kingdom
Local Name Boxing Day
Date Friday, 26th December, 2025
Type Public
Is Global true

About St. Stephen's Day holiday in United Kingdom


St. Stephen's Day, also known as Boxing Day in the United Kingdom, is celebrated on **December 26th**, the day after Christmas. It is a public holiday with historical and cultural significance. Traditionally, it was a day when servants and tradespeople would receive gifts, known as "Christmas boxes," from their employers or clients as a token of appreciation for their year-round service. Over time, the holiday has evolved into a day of relaxation, family gatherings, and shopping, with many retailers offering significant sales and discounts. In some regions, it is also associated with sporting events, such as football matches and horse racing. While the name "St. Stephen's Day" is more commonly used in Ireland and other parts of Europe, in the UK, it is predominantly referred to as Boxing Day. The holiday continues to blend historical traditions with modern festivities, making it a cherished part of the Christmas season.