20 Boxing Day Ideas for a Relaxed Family Day

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Quick answer: 20 Boxing Day Ideas for a Relaxed Family Day. This guide gives 20 ideas in 4 sections: Easy Food and Leftovers; Cosy Time at Home; Fresh Air and Outdoor Fun; Outings, Sport and Social Time.

Written by the PinkDux Team. Last updated October 2026.

Boxing Day is the gentle day after the big one. The cooking is done, the presents are open and nobody needs to be anywhere in particular, which makes it the perfect time for slow, easy fun.

Here are twenty ideas for a relaxed Boxing Day, split between time at home and time outdoors. Pick one or two for the day, and leave plenty of room for a nap on the sofa.

Easy Food and Leftovers

The best Boxing Day meals take almost no effort.

• Leftover sandwich bar: Set out cold turkey or nut roast, stuffing, cranberry sauce and bread so everyone can build their own. Fresh bread makes a world of difference.
• Bubble and squeak: Fry up leftover potato and sprouts into golden cakes. Serve with cold meat or a fried egg for a classic Boxing Day lunch.
• Turkey curry: Simmer leftover turkey with a mild curry sauce and serve with rice. Cool and store leftovers promptly and reheat until piping hot.
• Cheese and crackers board: Pull out the festive cheese and crackers for an afternoon grazing board. Add fruit and chutney for colour.
• Soup from the carcass: Simmer bones with vegetables for a nourishing stock. Freeze extra portions for a quick meal in January.

Cosy Time at Home

Take it slow and enjoy the company.

• Jigsaw puzzle on the table: Start a big puzzle and let people add pieces whenever they pass. It is peaceful and brings everyone together.
• Board game tournament: Pick a few games and keep a score sheet over the afternoon. A trophy for the winner adds extra fun.
• Film afternoon: Make a snug under blankets with snacks and a family favourite. Let children take turns choosing.
• Read a new book: Settle down with one of your new presents. A cuppa, a comfy chair and an hour of quiet are a treat.
• Try out new presents together: Play with a new game or build a new kit as a family. It gives gifts a chance to shine.

Fresh Air and Outdoor Fun

A bit of fresh air helps after all the rich food.

• Boxing Day walk: Many families walk on Boxing Day. Choose a route with a pub style path or a park, and take a flask of hot chocolate.
• Muddy puddle jumping: Let children splash in puddles in waterproofs. Hot baths and warm towels afterwards make it perfect.
• Nature treasure hunt: Give each child a list of things to spot, such as a pine cone or a red leaf. Tick them off on the walk.
• Feed the birds: Hang bird feeders in the garden or at a window. Birds are hungry in winter and children enjoy watching.
• Frosty football or garden games: Play a quick game in the garden to burn off energy. Check the ground is safe and not icy.

Outings, Sport and Social Time

If you fancy a change of scene, there are lots of options.

• Visit family or friends: Pop round to see friends for tea and cake. Take a small gift or a tin of leftover bakes.
• Local panto or show: Many theatres hold performances on Boxing Day. Book ahead to guarantee a seat.
• Cinema trip: A trip to the cinema gets everyone out for a few hours. Pre book tickets so you do not queue.
• Park or playground visit: A quiet playground is great for little ones. Take a thermos and wrap up warm.
• Swap and thank you notes: Sit down together and write thank you notes for gifts. It is a gentle job and takes the pressure off in January.

Helpful links and further reading

A few trusted places to find out more.

• National Trust: Find gardens, parks and historic places for a day out.
• English Heritage: places to visit: Castles, abbeys and gardens with family events through the year.
• Forestry England: Forest walks, trails and family activities across England.

Frequently asked questions

What do people usually do on Boxing Day?

Many families enjoy leftovers, a walk, sport or a visit to friends. It is traditionally a relaxed day after Christmas.

How do I keep leftovers safe?

Cool food quickly, store it in the fridge within a couple of hours and reheat until piping hot. Follow the advice on packaging.

What can I do with children on Boxing Day?

Try a walk, board games, or a film afternoon. Letting children test new presents is a lovely, low effort way to fill the day.

More ideas you might like

• Christmas Morning Ideas
• Christmas Traditions in the UK
• Christmas Family Games
• Cosy Winter Living Room Ideas