Boxing Day 2024 in Australia

The day after Christmas is Boxing Day, which is celebrated on December 26th. The roots of this holiday could be traced to British tradition. On this day, Australians either go barbecue or sit in front of TVs and watch the Boxing Day Test Match (a landmark cricket game in Melbourne) or Hobart Yacht Race, which starts that day in Sydney and ends in the capital of the Australian state of Tasmania.

How Australians Celebrate Boxing Day

Another feature of Boxing Day is great sales in large and small stores across Australia. It is on Boxing Day that you can buy any piece you like at half price. Going to the movies on Boxing Day is another tradition in Australia. And, of course, what holiday can be celebrated without a barbecue in the backyard of the house or on the beach?

Boxing Day Test Match

Back in the day, Boxing Day was largely celebrated with community sports events, a tradition still dearly cherished by Australians. The country gathers in front of their TVs or at the Melbourne Cricket Ground to witness the Boxing Day Test Match between the Australian cricket team and another country's national team, which is visiting Australia. This year's match is held as part of the fierce Border-Gavaskar Series, where cricket fans can witness the legendary match between Australia and India. Tickets generally start at $30. The match is set to begin at 10:30 am.

Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

Kicking off on Boxing Day in the Sydney Harbour, the iconic Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has been taking place for more than 70 years and continues to be a cherished tradition during Christmas. The race lasts approximately four to five days and ends in Hobart, Tasmania. Numerous teams from all over the world participated in the race, including groups from the Netherlands, Switzerland, China, and the United Kingdom.