Christmas Card Day is observed on December 9 each year, a timely reminder to write and mail holiday cards before the Christmas rush. Sending cards is a cherished tradition that keeps friends and family connected across distances. Whether you send photo cards, handmade cards or simple notes, a card in the mailbox is a small gift that brings warmth during the holiday season.
History of Christmas Card Day
In 1840, Britain introduced the Penny Post, making it cheap to send letters. A few years later, in 1843, Sir Henry Cole, a busy civil servant in London, commissioned artist John Callcott Horsley to design a card he could send instead of writing individual holiday letters. About 1,000 cards were printed, showing a family raising a toast with scenes of charity on either side. Surviving copies are now valuable collectors' items.
The idea caught on in Britain, and in the 1870s, Louis Prang, a German immigrant printer in Boston, began producing high-quality color Christmas cards in the United States. He is often called the 'father of the American Christmas card'.
In the 20th century, greeting card companies made cards affordable and widely available, and sending cards became a major American holiday tradition. Today, photo cards and digital cards are popular, but billions of paper cards are still mailed each season. Who created Christmas Card Day is not documented.
Why Christmas Card Day Matters
Holiday cards help people stay connected with friends and relatives they may not see often.
A handwritten note can mean more than a quick text, and many people save cards for years as keepsakes.
The day is also practical: mailing cards in early to mid-December helps ensure they arrive before Christmas, especially when sending overseas or to military service members.
How to Celebrate Christmas Card Day
- Write your cards: set aside time to address and sign them.
- Make handmade cards: use paper, stamps and glitter.
- Add a personal note: share a favorite memory from the year.
- Send cards to service members or seniors: brighten someone's holiday.
- Check mailing deadlines: mail early, especially for international cards.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a team can sign holiday cards for clients or for residents of a local senior home. In classrooms, students can design cards for veterans, hospital patients or school staff, and learn about the history of the postal system. At home, families can set up a card-writing station, let children decorate envelopes, and display cards received as decorations. Check the U.S. Postal Service holiday shipping deadlines each year.
Fun Facts About Christmas Card Day
- The first commercial Christmas card was sent in 1843.
- About 1,000 copies of the first card were printed.
- Louis Prang is called the 'father of the American Christmas card'.
Christmas Card Day FAQs
When is Christmas Card Day?
Christmas Card Day is observed on December 9 each year.
When was the first Christmas card sent?
The first commercial Christmas card was created in London in 1843 for Sir Henry Cole.
Who designed the first Christmas card?
Artist John Callcott Horsley designed it.
Who popularized Christmas cards in America?
Boston printer Louis Prang, beginning in the 1870s.
When should I mail Christmas cards?
Mail cards by early to mid-December, and earlier for international or military addresses.
What should I write in a Christmas card?
A warm greeting, a personal memory or wish for the new year, and your signature.