Around the world, many countries observe Boxing Day as a holiday. It falls on December 26th and is usually a day when people spend time with family and friends.

Boxing day has a long history, and there are many different myths and legends about why we celebrate it. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Boxing Day and discuss some of the reasons why it is such an important holiday for so many people!

What is Boxing Day?

Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated on the day following Christmas Day, when servants and tradesmen would traditionally receive gifts from their superiors. Today, it has become a popular shopping holiday in many countries around the world.

Boxing Day is typically celebrated with large sales at retail stores and other businesses. Many people take advantage of the holiday to shop for Christmas gifts or other items at discounted prices.

In addition to shopping, many people spend the day with family and friends, often enjoying a large meal together or watching sports and other entertainment on TV. Some families also visit local churches or cathedrals on Boxing Day to attend special services or holiday events.

The exact origins of this holiday are unclear, but it is believed to have its roots in ancient European celebrations that commemorated the winter solstice and the return of longer days.

Traditions of Boxing Day

In England, Boxing Day is a holiday that is traditionally celebrated on December 26th. This day commemorates the actions of English workers who donated their Christmas bonuses to poor citizens after their employers closed early for the holidays in the middle ages.

Today, Boxing Day traditions include spending time with family and friends and enjoying festive foods like roast turkey or ham, mince pies, and Christmas pudding. Some people also exchange small gifts on Boxing Day, like homemade sweets or a small toy.

Cheesy Stuffed Pancakes Recipe

Make these cheesy pancakes with charcuterie board leftovers. They're perfect for a Boxing Day or New Year's Day brunch, and they only require five ingredients.

Ingredients:

- Mascarpone (350g)

- 1/2 bunch, finely chopped chives

- Gruyère, Comté, or another type of hard cheese (150g)

- 8 store-bought pancakes

- Leftover Ham or Smoked Salmon (350g)

Instructions:

- In a large bowl, mix together the mascarpone and chopped chives until well combined.

- Grate the cheese and add it to the mascarpone mixture, stirring until evenly distributed.

- Lay out the pancakes on a clean work surface and spread an even layer of the cheese mixture over each one.

- Top the pancakes with slices of ham or smoked salmon, folding them to fit if necessary.

- Set the temperature of the oven to 350 degrees F, then place the pancakes on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pancake is warmed through.

- Serve the cheesy stuffed pancakes immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or chopped chives if desired. Enjoy!

Boxing Day Rocky Road Recipe

Make this festive rocky road your own. It's a great way to use up leftover Christmas cookies and sweets, and kids can help make them.

Ingredients:

- Butter, cut into cubes (100g)

-  250g shortbread or chocolate biscuits

- 75g shelled nuts

- 100g mixed dried fruit 

- 75g Christmas sweets 

- 400g chopped milk or plain chocolate (or both)

- 140g golden syrup

- 2 tbsp sprinkles for decoration

Instructions:

- In a large bowl, combine the butter, shortbread or chocolate biscuits, nuts, dried fruit and Christmas sweets.

- Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (or use the microwave), then stir in the golden syrup until well combined.

- Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the dry ingredients in the bowl and stir until everything is well coated.

- Line a deep, square baking tin with parchment paper, then spread the rocky road mixture evenly in the pan.

- Sprinkle over some sprinkles for decoration, then place in the fridge to set for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares and serving.

Looking forward to Boxing Day? Whether you are planning to spend time with family and friends, shop the sales, or enjoy a festive feast, there are many fun activities and delicious foods to celebrate this special holiday. So why not give one of our Boxing Day recipes a try today?