This was a very popular custom representing a change in order: the real Bishop stepped down in humility while the young boy stepped up from his lowliness. This quotes Mary's Magnificat: "He hath put down the mighty from their seat: and hath exalted the humble and meek." It was common that the Boy Bishop would distribute treats and declare holidays.
Henry VIII abolished the practice in 1542; Mary revived it during her reign and Elizabeth abolished it again--more about the tradition and its current status here.
Heard about this but never learned much about it. Thanks for the post and link to learn more.
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