Christmas Card Day

There are so many wonderful holiday traditions, but one of the most meaningful is the simple act of sharing warm greetings with one another. That’s what Christmas Card Day is all about. It’s a gentle reminder to pause in the middle of the holiday rush, pick out a card that feels just right, write a heartfelt message, and send it off. With just this small gesture, you can brighten someone’s season and deliver a little holiday cheer straight to their mailbox, no matter how far away they may be.

Key Takeaways:

• Christmas Card Day is celebrated every year on December 9.
• The day encourages sending a Merry Christmas day card or heartfelt Christmas cards to friends and family, near or far.
• The first recorded Christmas greeting dates back to 1611, while the first commercially produced Christmas card appeared in 1843.
• German-American printer Louis Prang helped popularize decorative Christmas cards in the U.S. in the 1870s.
• Today, billions of Christmas cards are sent each year, making Christmas the biggest card-sending holiday in the U.S.

What Is Christmas Card Day?

Christmas Card Day comes around every year on December 9th, giving you the perfect little nudge to finish up and send out your holiday cards. It’s your chance to make sure your cards reach friends and family, near or far, in time to brighten their Christmas Day.

Whether you choose a classic, traditional look or something uniquely you, this day is all about slowing down, picking the perfect card, and sharing a heartfelt message that brings a smile to someone you care about.

Interesting Facts About Christmas Card Day

There are some curious facts about the Christmas card day that are found interesting.

• The first commercially produced Christmas card was commissioned in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole.
• But there is an even earlier, recorded greeting from 1611. A handmade greeting with seasonal wording sent by Michael Maier to James I is the earliest known, preserved example.
• Louis Prang helped create the mass-market American Christmas card in the 1870s.
• Christmas is the biggest card-sending holiday in the U.S., with annual volumes in the billions.
• Etiquette guidance consistently recommends mailing cards early in December, often the first week through about December 10, so recipients can enjoy them before Christmas.
• So, in case you would like to mail happy holidays cards to your loved ones, you must remember to send them by the 9th of December.

When Is Christmas Card Day?

Christmas Card Day falls every year on December 9, giving you the perfect reminder to gather your cards, envelopes, and stamps so you can spread some holiday cheer to the people you care about.

Future Christmas Card Day Dates

Brief History

Christmas cards trace back to 1611 when Michael Maier sent a handmade card to James I and Prince Henry, featuring Rosicrucian imagery and a detailed festive greeting. However, the first commercially available Christmas card was created in 1843 by Sir Henry Cole and artist John Callcott Horsley in London. It depicted a family celebrating, scenes of charity, and bore the message “A Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to You.” Controversial for showing wine drinking, the card nonetheless marked the start of Christmas card day traditions.

By the 1870s, printing and postage improvements made Christmas cards widely accessible. German-American printer Louis Prang popularized decorative Christmas cards in the U.S., earning him the title “father of the American Christmas card.” The 20th century saw mass production by Hallmark, making the happy holidays card a household staple.

Today, Christmas card day 2025 celebrates this enduring tradition, reminding us of the joy in sending a merry Christmas day card or heartfelt christmas cards, connecting friends and family across miles.

How To Celebrate Christmas Card Day?

Celebrate Christmas Card Day on December 9 by sending your holiday cards. The joy comes from the effort you put into creating heartfelt greetings. Sending them today ensures everyone can enjoy your warm wishes. Take the day to organize your mailing list, prepare your cards, and spread festive cheer. Every card is a little piece of holiday spirit.

Here are a few tips to enjoy the day: 

1. Write Your List and Messages

Start by listing everyone you want to send a card to. Add a personal touch with a thoughtful note on each card. Remember, the real value is in your words! For your family, consider creating a custom Christmas card with custom Christmas wishes that show extra care.

2. Purchase Your Stamps

Before Christmas Card Day 2025, make sure you have enough stamps. Proper postage ensures your Christmas cards arrive on time. Remember, the key date to aim for is December 9.

3. Address and Seal

Write each address clearly and double-check postcodes to avoid mistakes. This helps you complete every Christmas card by the deadline.

4. Mail Them

Drop your cards at the post office or a mailbox. By doing this, you’ll hit the target of when should Christmas cards be sent out and share your holiday greetings right on time.

5. Look Ahead

After mailing, you can start thinking about next year’s cards. Maybe a photo card, a handmade design, or something that supports a good cause. Planning ahead can make your next Christmas Card Day even more fun.

Conclusion

Every year, December 9 is Christmas Card Day. It’s a gentle reminder not to leave your holiday greetings unfinished. In a world full of digital messages, a physical Christmas card brings warmth, sentiment, and a personal touch. Whether it’s a family photo card or a homemade creation, sending your cards on time spreads happiness to everyone on your list.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a National Card Day?

Yes! There are several days dedicated to sending cards throughout the year. Christmas Card Day 2025 is linked to the holiday season and encourages everyone to get their Christmas cards ready and mailed on time. In the United States, there’s also National Send a Card to a Friend Day on February 7, which celebrates the joy of sending friendly messages through physical mail. April 1 is recognized as National Greeting Card Day. But for holiday Christmas cards, December 9 is the key date to complete your mailings.