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Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is a public holiday in Tonga following Christmas Day. While its origins are rooted in the British tradition where servants and tradespeople would receive gifts known as a "Christmas box" from their employers or customers, the day has evolved into a time for relaxation and socializing after the formalities of Christmas.
The holiday's history in Tonga is tied to its past as a British protectorate, which influenced many of its modern-day customs and holidays. Traditionally, Boxing Day was an opportunity for those in service to have a day off to celebrate Christmas with their families since they would have been working on Christmas Day itself.
In contemporary Tongan society, Boxing Day is usually spent with family and friends. It's common for people to gather for extended feasts which include traditional foods such as roasted pig and fresh seafood. Many take this day to enjoy outdoor activities if weather permits, such as picnics at the beach or friendly sports competitions like cricket or rugby matches, both popular sports in Tonga.
Some may also use this day to attend church services as religion plays an integral role in the life of many Tongans. As with many other countries that observe this holiday, it can also be a day for shopping with stores offering post-Christmas sales.
Throughout all these activities, the spirit of community and sharing remains central to the celebrations of Boxing Day in Tonga.