But why is it called that? Arguments abound on the origins of the name Boxing Day. A ‘Christmas Box’ in Britain is a name for a Christmas present. Boxing Day was a day off for servants and when they received a ‘Christmas Box’ from the master. The servants would also go home to give ‘Christmas Boxes’ to their families. A box to collect money for the poor was placed in Churches on Christmas day then opened the next day. Great sailing ships when setting sail would have a sealed box containing money on board for good luck.If the voyage were a success the box was given to a priest, opened at Christmas and the contents given to the poor. What are your boxing day traditions?
having mrs mabels family round and playing grandparent bingo. before they get here we write a list of things that they will talk about but we cannot instigate directly. this years list (which to be fair is nearly the same as last year) is currently as follows; 1) Alex Ferguson (Grandad hates him, but doesnt know anything about football) 2) stool samples (Grandma) 3) some unknown neighbours personal issues or their pet 4) "Im getting one of those" - in reference to any new gadget laying around or indeed the van is a prime target this year. 5) any ailment that tops anything anyone else has suffered with this year. 6) recalling the national service train guard in the 1950s or skiing in germany on planks of wood during that time. same story embellished every year to greater effect. 7) buying a new car (happens every year despite them being OAPs)
