Boxing Day in Isle of Man

Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a public holiday in the Isle of Man, similar to its observance in the UK and other Commonwealth nations. Historically, it was the day when servants received gifts from their employers, known as "Christmas boxes," hence the name Boxing Day.

History and Traditions:

• The origins of Boxing Day may be linked to the tradition of alms boxes placed in churches during the Advent season for collection of monetary donations, which were distributed to the poor after Christmas.
• It also ties back to the British practice where tradespeople would receive "Christmas boxes" of gifts or money for good service throughout the year.

Modern Celebrations:

• Today, Boxing Day in Isle of Man is a time for family gatherings and socializing with friends.
• Many people take part in outdoor activities like walking and cycling. The day is often seen as an opportunity to enjoy nature and the winter scenery.
• Traditional fox hunting was a common activity on this day but has now been replaced by drag hunting (following an artificially laid scent) due to legal changes concerning hunting with dogs.
• Retailers often start their post-Christmas sales on Boxing Day, making it a busy day for shopping with significant discounts.
• Football matches and other sporting events are a popular feature of Boxing Day. The holiday provides an opportunity for local clubs to play and for people to support their teams.