Boxing Day in Uganda is celebrated annually on the 26th of December, the day after Christmas Day. Historically rooted in the British tradition of giving gifts or 'Christmas boxes' to service workers, Boxing Day has become a public holiday in many countries that were once part of the British Empire. Although its origins are Christian, this holiday is now embraced and celebrated by people of various faiths across the country, serving as an additional day for Ugandans to relax, celebrate, and share the joy of the season with their loved ones.
Typically, Boxing Day in Uganda is a day for family reunions and friendly gatherings. Many Ugandans take advantage of the holiday to visit relatives and friends, bringing along gifts, or ‘Christmas Boxes’, as per the holiday tradition. Moreover, this is a day characterized by a festive atmosphere, with shared meals, music, and dance. Ugandans also often use this day to extend their charitable hand by visiting orphanages and other charitable institutions, distributing gifts, and sharing meals.
Furthermore, Boxing Day in Uganda is also marked by various cultural and sporting events. Many people spend the day participating in or watching football games, concerts, and other festive activities. Businesses often organize sales and promotions, which attract crowds of shoppers. Despite the modern commercial aspects of Boxing Day, the essence of this holiday in Uganda remains centered on sharing, giving, and spending time with loved ones.