Boxing Day is observed annually in several countries, including Jamaica, on December 26.

While this holiday is celebrated by many people worldwide, its origin remains unclear for many.

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the term Boxing Day was first used in 1743 to commemorate the first weekday after Christmas, which is observed as a legal holiday in parts of the Commonwealth of Nations and marked the giving of Christmas boxes to service workers such as postal workers.

Others theorise that the holiday originated in 19th Century Victorian England where servants worked for their aristocratic masters on Christmas. The following day was designated as their day off and they were offered the leftovers from their masters as gifts to share with their families.

Our Today spoke to some persons in Half-Way Tree to get their views on why the day is called Boxing Day and celebrated as a holiday in Jamaica.

Kerrian said: “I don’t really know where it originated from, but I think it’s a time to relax and go out with family. Some people go to the beach, some go to the movies and so on.”

Another individual, who asked not to be named, said: “I think the holiday originated in England; I think they used to pack some foods together and give it to some needy persons. That’s what I can remember.”

Said Anthony Green: “I think Boxing Day is a day back in the days where we had some great boxers who had fights after Christmas, so they just give it that name.”

The tradition of Boxing Day in Jamaica

While the origin of the holiday remains unclear for many Jamaicans, they all share a unique understanding of the day.

The day is viewed as a continuation of Christmas that is commemorated with food, relaxation and going to events.

Nicole Grant said: “For me, I normally spend the time with my family and relax. I sometimes go out to the movies or parties to celebrate the day.”

Another individual, who gave her name as Audrey, said: “After Christmas I usually take the day to relax, have a good time with the family. I know some people go to Sting and other parties on this day.”