23 saved#4,214 of 6,224

Christmas Card Day

Spread holiday cheer and love with personalized Christmas cards - it's National Christmas Card Day!

Wednesday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEDecember 9

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYHobbies

SUBCATEGORYDIY

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Spread some holiday cheer and get into the Christmas spirit with Christmas Card Day on December 9! This day has been observed since the early 1900s, when it became a popular tradition to send out Christmas cards to friends and family. It's a great way to show your loved ones that you are thinking of them during this special time of year. Plus, it's a fun and creative outlet to express your holiday wishes and sentiments. So break out those festive stamps and glitter pens, and start spreading joy through the mail!

TIMELINE

Christmas Card Day Timeline

First Christmas Card

Sir Henry Cole and John Horsley of England created the first Christmas card.

US Introduction

The Christmas card custom migrated to the United States in 1875 when Louis Prang, a printer from Boston started mass production.

Hall Brothers' Innovation

Hall Brothers, now known as Hallmark Cards, created the modern day dimensions for Christmas cards.

WWII Influence

During World War II, special cards were designed as morale boosters for soldiers. This sparkled a new wave of Christmas card sending.

Digital Transition

With the advent of the digital age, e-cards became a popular option for sending Christmas messages.

Record Breaker

The record for the most expensive Christmas card sold at auction was set, with one of Horsley's cards selling for £22,250.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Christmas Card Day

Create personalized Christmas cards

Get crafty and make your own Christmas cards using different materials like paper, glitter, and ribbon. Personalize them with heartfelt messages and pictures to make them extra special for your loved ones.

HAVE

Have a Christmas card exchange party

Gather your friends and family and have a Christmas card exchange party. Each person can bring their own cards to swap with others, making it a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season.

SEND

Send cards to those in need

Spread some holiday cheer by sending Christmas cards to those in need, such as patients in hospitals or residents at nursing homes. It's a simple gesture that can make someone's day brighter.

HOST

Host a Christmas card making party

Gather your friends and family for a fun and festive Christmas card making party. Provide materials and snacks, and spend the day creating beautiful cards together.

SEND

Send a digital Christmas card

For a modern twist, send out digital Christmas cards through email or social media. You can even include fun animations and music to make them extra special.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Christmas Card Day

It keeps the tradition alive

In today's digital age, sending Christmas cards may seem outdated. However, continuing this tradition reminds us of simpler times and the importance of staying connected with others through personalized gestures.

It's a chance to connect with loved ones

Sending Christmas cards is a tradition that allows us to reach out and reconnect with family and friends. It's a time to show our love and appreciation for the special people in our lives, and what better way to do so than with a heartfelt card?

It brings holiday cheer

Receiving and displaying Christmas cards can add a festive touch to any home. Whether it's pictures of cute puppies or snowy landscapes, these cards can bring smiles and warm feelings during the holiday season.