Holidays, Celebrations on

December 26th is a day rich with various celebrations and observations. While many are winding down from the festivities of Christmas Day, others are revving up for a continuation of the holiday season's merriment.

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Gift boxes and candle on wooden table

Boxing Day

#Shopping

Traditionally involves giving gifts to employees and those in need.

There is a candy cane with a bow on it

National Candy Cane Day

#Food

Recognizing the ubiquity and cultural significance of this popular festive sweet.

Top view of hand holding pen, with envelope and eyeglasses aside

National Thank You Note Day

#Activities

A reminder of acknowledging and appreciating the thoughtful gifts and acts of kindness.

Interesting Facts of December 26th

  1. 1. December 26th is known as Boxing Day in many countries, including Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. It's traditionally a day when servants and tradespeople would receive gifts known as a "Christmas box" from their employers or customers.
  2. 2. In the United States and elsewhere, December 26th marks the beginning of Kwanzaa, a week-long celebration honoring African heritage and culture, ending on January 1st.
  3. 3. It is also celebrated as St. Stephen's Day in some Christian denominations. St. Stephen is recognized as the first Christian martyr, and it is a public holiday in several countries.
  4. 4. December 26th, 2004, is remembered for the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by an undersea earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Over 230,000 people were killed across 14 countries, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.
  5. 5. On December 26, 1991, the Supreme Soviet formally dissolved itself, effectively dissolving the Soviet Union, which signaled the end of the Cold War and the beginning of a new era in global politics.
  6. 6. On December 26th, 2003, the Lord of the Rings, The Return of the King, the third and final film in the highly successful fantasy adventure film series premiered, which later won 11 Oscars, tying it with only two other films for the most Academy Awards ever won.