Boxing Day
Nationwide public holiday in Australia
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 26 December | Saturday | Nationwide |
| 2026 | 28 December | Monday | Boxing Day Observed day off for Boxing Day (Sat 26 Dec) |
| 2026 | 28 December | Monday | Boxing Day (observed) Observed day off for Boxing Day (Sat 26 Dec) |
| 2027 | 26 December | Sunday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 28 December | Tuesday | Boxing Day Observed day off for Boxing Day (Sun 26 Dec) |
| 2027 | 28 December | Tuesday | Boxing Day (observed) Observed day off for Boxing Day (Sun 26 Dec) |
Observed days are days off given instead of, or as well as, the holiday's own date, for example when it falls on a weekend or the law moves it to a Monday.
Where it applies
Everywhere in Australia. The data source lists no holiday on this date in Tasmania.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Fri 25 Dec – Sun 27 Dec is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Canberra around 26 December: high 27°C (81°F), low 13°C (55°F), rain on 31% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Canberra. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Saturday 26 December in Canberra: (MET Norway)
About Boxing Day
Boxing Day, on 26 December, falls in the middle of the Australian summer holiday season. While its name comes from the British custom of giving Christmas boxes to servants and tradespeople, in Australia the day has become closely associated with relaxing after Christmas and with major sporting events that draw large crowds and television audiences.
Traditions
The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race starts from Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day, and the Boxing Day Test cricket match begins at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Post-Christmas sales and beach outings are also common.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Australia
Friday, 1 January 2027
Boxing Day in other countries
Christmas Island
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Cook Islands
Fiji
Kiribati
New Zealand
Niue
Norfolk Island
Papua New Guinea
Pitcairn Islands
Samoa
Tokelau
More for Australia
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.