Ghanaians mark Boxing Day holiday

With diverse social events, such as parties, family reunions and sporting events, Ghanaians are marking the December 26 Boxing Day.

It is a day relished most by revellers, especially the youth.

Though many shops are closed in observance of the statutory public holiday, commercial activities are underway in some main markets in the urban areas.

Historical accounts invariably reveal that Boxing Day got its name when Queen Victoria was on the throne in the 1800s.

It was an era where the rich used to box up gifts to give to the poor, thus the etymology of theme: Boxing Day.

Traditionally, servants were given the day off to spend it with their families as their Christmas Day.

Their masters also offered them special Christmas boxes in recognition of their services throughout the year.

They in turn, went home and presented these boxes of gifts to their families.

The day is celebrated as Saint Stephen's Day in Ireland and the Catalonia region of Spain.

"In some European countries - such as Hungary, Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands - Boxing Day is celebrated as a second Christmas Day," according to a BBC report.

Some churches in Ghana mark the Day with charity events to reflect the Giving Spirit behind the Christmas story.