Boxing Day, held annually on the 26th of December, is officially recognized as a public holiday in the Netherlands and several other countries. The day is also known and celebrated as 'Second Christmas Day' or 'Tweede Kerstdag'. Its name, Boxing Day, is believed to have originated from the United Kingdom, where it was traditionally a day off for servants who would receive a 'Christmas Box' from their masters, which could be a gift or bonus.
In the Netherlands, Boxing Day is part of the Christmas holidays and is traditionally a time for families to gather and enjoy extended celebrations. Unlike other countries where the day is associated with shopping and sales, in the Netherlands, the focus is rather on the continuation of the Christmas spirit. Many Dutch people use this day to relax, spend time with loved ones, indulge in festive food and drink, and visit special Christmas markets and concerts.
It is important to note that while commercial activities are becoming increasingly common on Boxing Day in the Netherlands, the majority of businesses stay closed allowing people to fully relax and enjoy the holiday. Many Dutch people also take advantage of this day to go outside and participate in leisure activities like ice skating or simply walking in nature. Overall, Boxing Day in the Netherlands is a day of relaxation, enjoyment and a continuation of the Christmas festivity.