StettlerLocal.com December 26, 2021
Boxing Day, December 26, is also known as the Feast of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. It is celebrated in many parts of the Commonwealth, including Canada.
Historically, the day after Christmas has been a day for giving. The tradition goes back to the early 10th century - the time of ‘Good King Wenceslas’ from the Christmas Carol. It was also a time for aristocratic families to give gifts to their servants.
The origin of the name ‘Boxing Day’ is believed to have stemmed from the traditional opening of Anglican ‘poor boxes’ that were filled during Advent or that it may be from the “boxing up” of food to give to servants and staff.
Customs for boxing day varies throughout the commonwealth, with English fox hunting, Irish bird hunting, ‘mumming’ - parades and general revelry, practiced in Newfoundland, and, of course, post-Christmas shopping, eating, and rest.
Boxing day is a ‘general holiday’ - commonly taken in Canada.
As you take the day off to eat leftover turkey and take long winter naps, take a few minutes to browse upcoming events in the New Year!
Jimilee Ayotte, Editor
StettlerLocal.com