Salisbury Cathedral, Wiltshire, England

Unboxed traditions. Boxing Day

The best thing about Boxing Day is that it doesn't ask much of you. No big countdown. No dramatic unwrapping. No last-minute dashes for batteries. It's a rare holiday that says, 'Sit down, finish your leftovers and take a moment.' Celebrated on December 26 in Canada, United Kingdom and some Commonwealth countries, it's a national cool-down after Christmas has done all the heavy lifting. The term goes back to Victorian Britain, when households prepared Christmas boxes for workers and tradespeople—tokens of thanks that ranged from coins to essentials. Churches joined in by opening alms boxes and distributing donations.

Fast-forward to today, Boxing Day in Canada blends tradition with modern habits. Hockey takes centre stage as World Juniors and local games turn the day into a fan festival. Snowy walks help ease the post-feast lull. And then there are the mega-sales that spark early lines and brisk browsing across malls nationwide. For those who prefer scenery over discounts, winter parks and quiet historic sites offer a calmer escape. While polar-bear plunges wait for New Year's Day, Canadians embrace skating, family time and the simple joy of slowing down after the holiday rush.