Boxing Day in Cyprus

Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a public holiday in Cyprus that follows Christmas Day. It is a day when people traditionally spend time with family and friends, continuing the festive celebrations.

History and Traditions

Boxing Day's origins are British, and since Cyprus was a British colony until 1960, many British customs, including Boxing Day, have been integrated into Cypriot culture. The name "Boxing Day" comes from the historical practice of giving Christmas boxes containing small gifts or money to service workers or the needy the day after Christmas. This tradition of giving continues in various forms.

In Cyprus, the day does not typically involve the distribution of Christmas boxes. Instead, it's an extension of Christmas celebrations and an opportunity for relaxation and socializing.

Activities on Boxing Day

• Family Gatherings: Many Cypriots visit relatives they didn't see on Christmas Day or host gatherings at their homes.
• Outdoor Activities: Weather permitting, some may go for walks or partake in outdoor activities to enjoy the mild winter climate.
• Shopping: With modern influences, Boxing Day has become a popular day for shopping due to sales that stores offer during this time.
• Eating Leftovers: Leftover food from Christmas feasts is often enjoyed on Boxing Day.
• Football Matches: For sports enthusiasts, attending or watching football matches might be part of the day's agenda as it's a tradition inherited from Britain.

Though it doesn't have deeply rooted cultural traditions specific to Cyprus, Boxing Day remains an extra day of leisure following the major celebration of Christmas.