Boxing Day in Samoa

Boxing Day in Samoa is celebrated on December 26th, following the festivities of Christmas Day. This public holiday has its roots in British tradition, where it was originally a day to give gifts to the poor and service workers. Over time, it has evolved into a general holiday for spending time with family and friends.

History and Traditions

The celebration of Boxing Day in Samoa reflects its history as a former colony of New Zealand, which had adopted many British customs. As such, some of the older traditions associated with Boxing Day have waned over time but the essence of generosity and community spirit remains.

Modern Celebrations

On this day, Samoans typically relax and enjoy the company of their extended family and friends. It is common for people to engage in:

• Feasting: Families gather for large meals, often continuing the feasting from Christmas with traditional Samoan foods.
• Outdoor Activities: Many take advantage of the public holiday to go to beaches or participate in outdoor sports.
• Church Services: Some may attend church services as part of their observance.
• Gift-Giving: While not as central as on Christmas day, some may continue exchanging gifts or providing aid to those less fortunate.

In modern times, Boxing Day has also become associated with shopping sales similar to those seen in other countries like Australia and Canada. However, the focus in Samoa remains more on socializing and enjoying leisure time after the busy Christmas season.