Boxing Day in Australia
26 December is Boxing Day in Australia and is a public holiday in every state and territory. It follows Christmas Day and is widely associated with family gatherings, major sporting events, retail sales and summer leisure activities.
Boxing Day Date for 2025
| Name | Date | Day | Holiday Type | States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boxing Day | 26 Dec | Friday | Public holiday | All |
Are Businesses Closed?
Boxing Day is a public holiday and all offices are closed. While some major retailers are open for the Boxing Day sale, majority of businesses stay closed.
Are Schools Closed?
Schools are closed throughout the Christmas and New Year. This period is included in the summer school holidays in Australia. Schools open with their new term only at the end of January or early February.
Why is it called Boxing Day?
The name comes from a British tradition where employers and wealthy families gave "Christmas boxes" (gifts or donations) to workers, tradespeople and those in need. The tradition spread across Commonwealth countries, including Australia.
How Australians celebrate Boxing Day
1. The Boxing Day Test Cricket
The Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is one of Australia's most iconic sporting events. Thousands attend, and millions more watch on television. It marks a key moment in the Australian summer.
2. The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
Another major tradition is the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. The race begins in Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day and finishes in Hobart, Tasmania, attracting international competitors and global attention.
3. Boxing Day Sales
Retail stores hold some of the biggest sales of the year, similar to Black Friday in other countries. Shopping centres and city retail strips can be extremely busy, and many Australians shop both in-store and online.
4. Family gatherings and relaxation
For many, Boxing Day is a relaxed continuation of the holiday break. Australians often enjoy leftovers from Christmas lunch, visit friends and relatives, or head outdoors for beach trips, camping, barbecues or swimming.
In the suburban homes, family BBQ and backyard cricket is very popular.
Regional and cultural variations
Boxing Day can look different across the country:
- Coastal areas often see full beaches, picnics and water activities.
- Country towns may host community cricket matches or local fairs.
- Many multicultural families blend cultural foods and customs into the holiday period.
Similarities with other countries
- Public holiday on 26 December (common in Commonwealth nations).
- Retail sales and shopping promotions.
- Continuation of family gatherings after Christmas.
Key differences compared to the rest of the world
Summer celebrations
Unlike countries in the Northern Hemisphere, Boxing Day in Australia is often hot and sunny, promoting beach and outdoor activities.
Major sporting focus
The Boxing Day Test and Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race are uniquely iconic Australian traditions not widely replicated in other countries.
Holiday travel peak
Since late December falls during school holidays, many Australians travel regionally or interstate during this period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Boxing Day a public holiday in Australia?
Yes. Boxing Day is a public holiday in all Australian states and territories.
What happens if Boxing Day falls on a weekend?
Most states offer an additional substitute or “in lieu” public holiday. Specific rules can vary by state.
Why are Boxing Day sales so popular?
Retail stores offer major discounts and end-of-year stock clearance, making it one of the biggest shopping days of the year.