HOLIDAYS: Boxing Day (December 26)

Choose the best word(s) from the following list to complete each sentence: in addition to, leftovers, originated, synonymous, observed, sport, collect, service, closed.

1. Boxing Day is on the day after Christmas.

2. The holiday is celebrated in Great Britain (where it ), as well as in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries. In these countries, it is a public holiday, so most offices are .

3. Contrary to what some people might think, Boxing Day has nothing to do with the of boxing. Many etymologists believe that the "boxing" refers to "Christmas boxes", which were presents that were once given to workers on the first weekday after Christmas as thanks for their throughout the year.

4. Some etymologists think the name "Boxing Day" comes from an even earlier tradition -- from the "boxes" that churches used to money that would later be donated to poor people.

5. These days Boxing Day has become with big sales. Shopping on Boxing Day is a very popular modern tradition.

6. Many countries celebrate what is known as "St. Stephen's Day" ( = in conjunction with) Boxing Day on December 26th.

7. There are no traditional meals associated with the holiday. Most people just eat ( = food that remains) from Christmas.

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