Boxing Day is a day for leftover turkey, telly and bargains, but its traditions go back much further and are steeped in history

Boxing Day has become a favoured festive tradition in the UK as people spend time with the families, shop in the sales or watch some football - but where did the name come from?

Boxing Day was once a day to donate gifts to those in need, but it has evolved to become a part of the Christmas celebration.

There are a few theories about where Boxing Day got its name, but there is one correct answer. It is nothing to do with the sport of boxing

It is said that the first Boxing Day match was played between Sheffield and Hallam in 1860, but it was not before the 1888-89 season that the tradition began to take shape with a game between Preston North End and West Bromwich Albion.

Boxing Day, on December 26, began as a tradition of giving 'Christmas boxes' to servants and the poor. Today, it's celebrated with shopping sales, sports, family time, and relaxation after Christmas.

If you’re needing to stock up after Christmas or want to snap up a bargain in the Boxing Day sales, this is your full guide to today’s trading hours.

Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26, began as a charitable tradition and is now known for big sales and discounts. It’s also a day for family, relaxation, and sports, with football in the UK and hockey in Canada being popular.