Boxing Day, traditionally celebrated on December 26, is a public holiday in Ghana. As a former British colony, Ghana inherited many traditions from the UK, including this unique holiday. Unlike its name suggests, Boxing Day isn't about the sport of boxing, but is a secular holiday which has its roots in the United Kingdom dating back to the Middle Ages, when it was the day where the alms box, collection boxes for the poor often kept in churches, were traditionally opened so that the contents could be distributed to poor people.
Ghana, like many other nations, observes Boxing Day as a time for giving and caring, especially extending a hand to the less privileged in society. Families often continue the spirit of Christmas Day by extending their festivities and having another large meal, while some make a point of visiting less fortunate friends and neighbours or volunteering at charity organizations. Children are usually excited about Boxing Day as it is often a day they receive presents in boxes; a tradition that is believed to have led to the naming of the holiday.
In recent years, Boxing Day has also taken on a commercial focus where stores and online retail sites hold year-end sales, similar to Black Friday sales in the United States. However, despite the commercialism, the heart of Boxing Day in Ghana remains community-oriented, focused on giving, spending time with loved ones, and relaxing after the logistics of Christmas Day. Despite the origin of the holiday, the customary practices may vary according to regional and cultural differences within the nation.