First Ever

There are a few schools of thought as to the origin of Boxing Day. One school of thought contends that its origins springs up from the tradition churches had of opening the alms box on December 26 to distribute its contents to the poor. These were opened on December 26 in honor of St. Stephen, who was the first martyr of Christianity and whose feast is on December 26. Another theory is that the name was derived from the tradition of masters giving their servants the day off and giving them a Christmas Box. The servants would also bring Christmas boxes to their families.