Boxing Day
Historical Context
Boxing Day falls on 26 December every year. It is a recognised holiday.
Boxing Day, also known as St Stephen's Day after the first Christian martyr, has traditionally been a day for visiting family after Christmas. The tradition of two Christmas days dates back to the Middle Ages in the Netherlands, when the church prescribed multiple feast days around Christmas. In many European countries, 26 December is recognised as a holiday, but not everywhere: in the US and many southern European countries, only 25 December is a day off.
Boxing Day in the Netherlands is traditionally the day for visiting in-laws or friends, a practical solution for dividing Christmas between both sides of the family. Many people go for winter walks in the woods or dunes, visit a Christmas market, or head to the cinema. Post-Christmas sales are growing in popularity: following the British example, more and more shops open their doors on 26 December.
Regional Traditions
Twente & Achterhoek
The midwinterhoorn tradition continues through Boxing Day. The horns are blown at dawn, dusk, and between church services.
Dinkel (Twente)
In the Dinkelland area, midwinterhoorn competitions are traditionally held on Boxing Day (Sint Steffen). Organised competitions in Twente have existed since 1953.