Boxing Day originated as an English custom, so countries celebrating Boxing Day include nations which were or are members of the Commonwealth of Nations, such as:
- United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales)
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Canada
- Hong Kong
- Cook Islands
- Fiji
Other countries which recognise Boxing Day (but not always as a public holiday)are:
- Greenland
- Gibraltar
- Barbados
- Belize
- Bermuda
- British Virgin Islands
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- Greece
- Hungary
- Kenya
- Nauru
- Romania
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- South Africa has Boxing Day, but the name has been changed to the Day of Goodwill.
In addition, many nations celebrate or recognise "St Stephen's Day" on December 26, whilst other countries, particularly in Europe, have what they call a "Second day of Christmas".