Some occasions and celebrations are sort of just there. We all celebrate or at least remember them, but we need more understanding of their significance or history. One such celebration is Boxing Day, which is celebrated on the 26th of December. It’s associated with no other pastime in the UK as much as football. Yet its history and significance are much more complex than just Boxing Day fixtures at the Premiership or Championship. In this blog, we’d like to look back at some of the most memorable matches that happened on this day and remember why it’s celebrated in the first place. After all, it draws in thousands of fans yearly and has already solidified its place as a significant sporting day in the British calendar.
Boxing Day – What is it?
The origins of Boxing Day are related to its place on the calendar – Christmas and Holidays phase. It’s also known as the Time of Giving. Historically, churches would open their alms boxes on the first weekday after Christmas. This was done as charity and goodwill, aiming to distribute the contents to people experiencing poverty, a practice that lent the day its name.
As time went on, the tradition expanded from just churches to factories and other places of employment. During Boxing Day, employers gave their staff gifts or cash bonuses in boxes on this day.
During this day, all the divides between different social strata seemingly evaporated and helped bridge social gaps during festive times when everyone wanted happiness.
As society evolved, so did the nature of Boxing Day. The 19th century saw it become more commercialised Day, drawing crowds to shopping malls and sports venues. Organisers became aware that this time was a perfect spot for events as it would attract major interest and good ratings.
Sports, particularly football and horse racing, became a major part of Boxing Day during the 20th century. Football leagues in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland feature a full program of matches, a tradition beloved by fans that serves as both a major spectator event and a significant part of the holiday season’s entertainment. Think of Christmas Day NBA Games.
As of right now, Boxing Day fixtures in the Premier League are amongst the most-viewed ones, with top-tier squads and title contenders being often featured.
When is Boxing Day?
Boxing Day is celebrated on December 26th annually. The date is immediately after the First day of Christmas. Boxing Day is now a recognised holiday across the United Kingdom and many Commonwealth nations, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
While the date remains constant in most countries, some regions may shift the public holiday to the next weekday if December 26th falls on a weekend. Boxing Day could be the 27th or the 28th.
This ensures that the public can still enjoy a day off work, maintaining the tradition.
Football Fixtures on Boxing Day
As mentioned, Boxing Day has become a cornerstone date on the British football calendar, intertwining the holiday spirit with the nation’s favourite sport.
The very first recorded football matches on Boxing Day occurred in the late 1800s. Professional leagues soon adopted the practice as the viewership numbers, and interest seemed to be off the charts. The 26th and the days before the occasion are characterised by a full schedule of football matches across the country involving the Premier League and lower divisions.
Look at this graphic showing the schedule for Boxing Day football in the 23-24 Premier League season.
Boxing Day football fixtures offer fans a somewhat rare opportunity to continue the holiday celebrations with family and friends, gathering at stadiums or around televisions for shared enjoyment.
Fun Facts About & History Worth Remembering About Boxing Day Football
Since it has been around for so long, many interesting and unique situations have unfolded on this particular day. Let’s remember the most exciting matches from recent history that happened on the 26th of December. One of the most exceptional features of Boxing Day fixtures is the high-scoring, powerful offensive displays. So maybe it might be worthwhile exploring betting for the over on goals? Let’s look at the video to refresh your memory on the most incredible games from recent history on this holiday.
- Arsenal 6-1 Leicester (2000/01). The Gunners demonstrated their dominance in this match with a spectacular 6-1 victory over Leicester City, with Thierry Henry putting three goals in the Foxes’ net. This game underscored Arsenal’s attacking prowess during a very strong campaign, during which they finished second.
- Manchester United 4-3 Newcastle United (2012/13). A thrilling encounter at Old Trafford saw Manchester United edge Newcastle in a seven-goal spectacle, with four goals being scored in the second half. The odd-defying goal from Chicarito allowed the Red Devils to walk away with a dramatic victory in front of 75,000 fans.
- Manchester City 6-3 Leicester City (2021/22). It might not be the most competitive game on paper, but it sure looked like a definite classic about midway through the 2nd half. After 25 minutes of playing, the Etihad side was already up 4-0. However, in the 65th minute, the score was already 4-3, and Manchester City looked at the brink of collapse. Yet, as is with City almost every season, they pulled through and bagged two more goals to secure the win.
- Coventry City 3-2 Arsenal (1999/00). Boxing Day fixtures aren’t just about favourites bagging multiple goals. They’re also about upsets. One particular stands out. When mid-table frequents, Coventry City defeated Arsenal 3-2. Thierry Henry, Freddie Ljunberg, and Marc Overmars weren’t enough for 3 points on this one.
- Sheffield Wednesday 3-3 Manchester United (1992/93). This match is an instant classic. Even though the encounter in Hillsborough, Sheffield, ended in a draw, it was filled with excitement and showcased the competitive spirit typical of Boxing Day matches. Sheffield Wednesday was thrashing Red Devils 3-0 up until the 67th minute. Yet, Eric Cantona scored one goal, and Brian McClair bagged two to secure a point for the United side.
- Chelsea 4-4 Aston Villa (2007/08). This match was a spectacular back-and-forth affair that ended in a high-scoring draw. In a match where Chelsea had 76 % possession, Aston Villa capitalized on every opportunity that they had. The Chelsea line-up itself is worth a separate article but Aston Villa managed to overcome fighting 10 v 11 for a majority of the 2nd half and still secured a point.