About Boxing Day
Boxing Day falls on December 26, the day after Christmas, and is a public holiday in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and across much of the Commonwealth. The countdown above tracks the days until one of the most relaxed days of the festive season — a day for leftovers, family walks, blockbuster sales and a full slate of sport. Where December 26 lands on a weekend, the holiday is often observed on the following weekday.
The name most likely comes from the tradition of the "Christmas box" — gifts, money or tips given to servants, tradespeople and the needy on the day after Christmas, a custom stretching back centuries. Modern Boxing Day means three things above all: huge retail sales, the Commonwealth's answer to Black Friday; a beloved full programme of Premier League football in England; and the start of the famous Boxing Day Test cricket match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Because it always falls on December 26, Boxing Day never moves, arriving the moment the Christmas countdown ends. Whether you are eyeing the sales, planning your sofa-and-sport day or just enjoying the lull between Christmas and New Year, the countdown above shows exactly how long is left. Add it to your own page to keep the festive countdown going right through the season.
Upcoming dates
| 2026 | Saturday, December 26, 2026next |
| 2027 | Sunday, December 26, 2027 |
| 2028 | Tuesday, December 26, 2028 |
| 2029 | Wednesday, December 26, 2029 |
| 2030 | Thursday, December 26, 2030 |
FAQ
When is Boxing Day?
December 26 every year — the day after Christmas Day. It is a public holiday across the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and much of the Commonwealth.
Why is it called Boxing Day?
Most likely from the tradition of giving "Christmas boxes" — gifts or money — to servants, tradespeople and the poor on the day after Christmas.
How is Boxing Day celebrated?
With major retail sales, family meals of Christmas leftovers and walks, a full day of Premier League football in England, and the Boxing Day Test cricket in Australia.
Is Boxing Day a public holiday everywhere?
No — it is a holiday across the Commonwealth and parts of Europe, but it is not a federal holiday in the United States, where December 26 is a normal working day.