What is Boxing Day in the Premier League? ALL matches and its connection to Christmas

Boxing Day in the Premier League is a special matchday celebrated every December 26, the day after Christmas, maintaining a tradition that blends history, football, and festive spirit. This day is renowned not only for the matches scheduled but also for its cultural significance in England, where sports become a holiday gift for fans.

The origins of Boxing Day and its connection to football

Boxing Day traces its roots to the 19th century, when wealthy families gave boxes filled with money, food, or clothing to their employees the day after Christmas, known as "Boxing Day". This act of generosity evolved over time, becoming associated with football as a popular entertainment for working-class people on their day off.

The first official Boxing Day match took place in 1860, when Sheffield FC faced Hallam FC, marking the beginning of a football tradition that has endured to this day. Since then, this matchday has symbolized the competitive and charitable spirit that defines English football, making it one of the most anticipated days in the Premier League.

Boxing Day 2024 in the Premier League

In the 2024/25 season, Boxing Day marks Matchday 18 of the Premier League, featuring pivotal and exciting encounters. Among the highlights, Manchester City will face Everton as they aim to recover from an unexpected crisis under Pep Guardiola. Meanwhile, Liverpool, led by Arne Slot, will seek to solidify their lead in a clash against Leicester at Anfield.

Surprise performers like Bournemouth, currently sitting fifth in the table, will take on Crystal Palace, while Manchester United will try to overcome their struggles against Wolves, who are fighting to avoid relegation.

A matchday with competitive and cultural impact

Unlike other european leagues that take a break during the holidays, the Premier League intensifies its schedule during this period. Boxing Day is not only a sports spectacle but also a deeply rooted cultural tradition. Families pack stadiums to celebrate Christmas by watching football, creating a festive yet highly competitive atmosphere.

This matchday also significantly impacts the league dynamics, as the results can shape the race for the title, european spots, and relegation battles. The intense english schedule, which features three matchdays in less than two weeks, tests teams' endurance and strategic planning.

Complete Boxing Day 2024 Premier League schedule and how to watch

Here is the full schedule for Boxing Day 2024, including match times and viewing options:

Thursday, December 26

• 07:30 ET / 04:30 PT | Manchester City vs. Everton | Fubo Sports, Universo, USA Network
• 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT | Newcastle vs. Aston Villa | Fubo Sports, TeleXitos, Universo, USA Network
• 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT | Southampton vs. West Ham | Peacock
• 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT | Chelsea vs. Fulham | Peacock
• 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT | Nottingham Forest vs. Tottenham | Peacock
• 10:00 ET / 07:00 PT | Bournemouth vs. Crystal Palace | Peacock
• 12:30 ET / 09:30 PT | Wolverhampton vs. Manchester United | Fubo Sports, Peacock, TeleXitos, Universo, USA Network
• 15:00 ET / 12:00 PT | Liverpool vs. Leicester City | Fubo Sports, TeleXitos, Universo, USA Network

Friday, December 27

• 14:30 ET / 11:30 PT | Brighton vs. Brentford | Peacock
• 15:15 ET / 12:15 PT | Arsenal vs. Ipswich Town | Fubo Sports, Universo, USA Network

What you need to know about Boxing Day in the Premier League

• What is Boxing Day? Boxing Day is an English tradition combining football and Christmas celebrations on December 26.
• Why is Boxing Day celebrated? Its origins stem from wealthy families giving boxes of goods to workers in the 19th century.
• When is Boxing Day 2024 in the Premier League? On December 26 and 27, as part of Matchday 18 in the 2024/25 season.
• What are the standout matches in Boxing Day 2024? Manchester City vs. Everton, Liverpool vs. Leicester, and Newcastle vs. Aston Villa, among others.
• What makes it unique compared to other leagues? The Premier League intensifies its schedule during Christmas while other leagues take a break.