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December 26th • Tradition & Consumerism

Boxing Day

Boxing Day is a holiday celebrated the day after Christmas Day, occurring on 26 December. Today, we debate the transition from its historical roots as a day for charity (giving boxes to the poor) to its modern status as a major shopping event with massive sales. What are the pros and cons of the post-Christmas culture, and how has the holiday evolved in your part of the world? Is Boxing Day still about giving, or is it all about getting?

A stack of cardboard boxes and shopping bags under a Christmas tree

Speaking Discussion

  • Do you celebrate Boxing Day (or a similar holiday on December 26th)? What are your typical traditions?
  • In your opinion, what is the biggest reason for the shift from charity to consumerism on this specific day?
  • How much of a role do sales and discounts play in your decision to shop on Boxing Day? Do you often find good deals?
  • What do you think about the tradition of returning unwanted Christmas gifts on Boxing Day? Is it practical or impolite?
  • How can we bring back the original spirit of charity and giving to the post-Christmas season?
  • If you had to spend Boxing Day doing something completely unrelated to shopping or gifts, what would it be?

Activity 1: The charity box Pitch

The Task: You are a Community Leader. You need to persuade your neighbours to fill a boxing day charity box for a local food bank.

What are the three most important things people should include, and why?

Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The best part of Boxing Day is..."
  • "I think sales psychology is..."
  • "In my opinion, the spirit of giving is..."