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What is the Boxing Day Football Tradition in England?

Published on 1 April 2024

For those readers in the UK, you will understand that there is a tradition for football on Boxing day, including the Premier League. Fans eagerly anticipate these fixtures, making the games some of the most sought-after matches of the season. 

What is The Tradition? 

How did the San Esteban Festivities in which the upper-classes of England made charitable donations those most in need, turn into an English footballing tradition? The connection is that for many years, bosses of English businesses gave their workers the day off after Christmas, as well as free football tickets. 

The tradition allows a break from the standard Christmas holiday and fans view it as a perfect way to extend the festive cheer. During this period, there are fixtures every few days, to the delight of football fans around the UK. Boxing Day is usually packed across all leagues with fixtures from noon until early evening. 

When is ‘Boxing Day’?

Boxing day is the always the same day each calendar year, the 26th December and is the day after Christmas in the UK. Other countries including Ireland, Canada and Australia also celebrate this holiday. The day is also classed as an official holiday meaning that most businesses and companies are off. Many retailers do open their doors for the ‘Boxing Day Sales’.

Demand for Tickets

We at Safe Ticket Compare have compared boxing day tickets since 2007 and understand that demand for the tickets is high especially for the major teams in the Premier League. Tickets officially sell-out and many supporters plan the games in advance. Games in London, Liverpool and Manchester also see an increase in demand as international fan visit the UK for the holiday period. Purchase your Premier League football tickets for all the games including Boxing Day, New Year’s Day and Easter, all traditional days in the English footballing calendar.

December Break

Many European leagues enjoy a break during the Christmas period with several top Premier League managers also recommending the same for the UK. The packed schedule can cause a strain on players and club staff, affecting their ability to spend time with family during this period. The boxing day football tradition in the UK has been around for many years meaning any changes to it will be sure to face resistance. 

Boxing Day football here in the UK is more than just a series of matches, it is a tradition that brings people together and offers excitement to football fans during the festive period. The demand for tickets, the sold-out stadiums, and the passion of the supporters all contribute to the unique atmosphere of this boxing day tradition.

Boxing Day football remains an integral part of the Premier League season and we believe that it is here to remain for the foreseeable future. 

Boxing Day Fixtures and tickets

The boxing day fixtures for 2023 have been scheduled, here is the list of Premier League games on the 26th December along with links for tickets.

For more Premier League tickets, even to the biggest games be sure to use our comparison tool to get competitive deals from the safest football ticket websites online.