Boxing Day is an official national public holiday in Australia, celebrated annually on December 26. Falling in the height of the glorious Southern Hemisphere summer, this holiday serves as a massive extension of the festive season, locking in a multi-day holiday block across almost all states and territories that shuts down standard corporate offices, public banks, and government services.
Australia Boxing Day Public Holiday Schedule & Australian Summer Traditions
| Year | Date | Day | Holiday | States |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 26 Dec | Sat | Boxing Day | National except SA |
| 28 Dec | Mon | Boxing Day Holiday | National except SA | |
| 2027 | 26 Dec | Sun | Boxing Day | National except SA |
| 28 Dec | Tue | Boxing Day Holiday | National except SA | |
| 2028 | 26 Dec | Tue | Boxing Day | National except SA |
Visit australia.com for the original release.
How is Boxing Day Celebrated in Australia?
A typical Australian Boxing Day balances high-octane retail shopping rushes with some of the country's most legendary, world-class sporting traditions and relaxed outdoor family gatherings.
The Boxing Day Test
Millions of sports fans tune in to watch the iconic Boxing Day Test match live from the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). This world-renowned cricketing event sees the Australian national team go head-to-head with an international touring side before a packed, high-energy stadium crowd.
Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race
Maritime sports take center stage as massive crowds line the cliffs of Sydney Harbour to witness the spectacular start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Elite international maxi-yachts and dedicated crews set sail on a grueling 628-nautical-mile blue-water classic down the coast to Tasmania.
Retail Bargain Rushes
For keen shoppers, the holiday marks the grand launch of the annual post-Christmas retail sales. Hundreds of thousands of eager bargain hunters queue outside major department stores from the early hours of the morning to secure deep promotional discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Boxing Day is a public holiday observed by almost every state and territory across Australia. The lone exception is South Australia, which officially celebrates Proclamation Day on December 26 instead, though both holidays secure a day off for local workers.
In 2026, Boxing Day falls on a Saturday (December 26), which triggers an official substitute public holiday on Monday, December 28. In 2027, it lands on a Sunday (December 26), pushing the substitute day to Tuesday, December 28. For the 2028 calendar year, Boxing Day will fall on a Tuesday (December 26).
Core traditions involve watching the opening sessions of the MCG Boxing Day Test match, tracking the starting fleet of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, hunting for premium bargains at major retail shopping malls, and eating festive leftovers.