During the Victorian era, wealthy people would gather their extra possessions and give them to the less fortunate. Domestic workers were given a break from their work on this particular day, and their efforts were recognized with a "special box" of goodies. After that, the employees would head back home to spend the 26th with their families and exchange the gifts they had just been given. In addition, it was common for the wealthier families in the community to distribute food to individuals who might not have had access to such a lavish Christmas feast.
Alms boxes, which are positioned in churches to gather money for the less fortunate, are where the name first appeared. In honor of the feast day of St. Stephen, a Christian martyr known for his altruistic actions, church members would give these donations to the underprivileged on December 26. Ireland refers to Boxing Day as St. Stephen's Day because St. Stephen is so important.
At present, Boxing Day is not so much focused on charitable deeds but rather a day to unwind with loved ones, reconnect with those you missed on Christmas, and engage in inventive cooking by preparing leftover Christmas food, such as turkey sandwiches, a chilled ham brunch, or simply nibbling on the bits and pieces from the previous day. Even though the customs have changed over time, Boxing Day still has a special feeling of festivity about it.
