The Tradition of Giving Christmas Cards

There’s something uniquely heartwarming about receiving a Christmas card, isn’t there? The sight of an envelope with a handwritten name, its weight in your hands, and the joy you feel as you unfold it to reveal a thoughtful greeting—it’s like a little spark of holiday cheer delivered personally to you. It’s a moment that brings back fond memories and fills you with warmth. But have you ever sat down, perhaps while writing your cards, and wondered how this tradition began? I did.

The story of Christmas cards is not just a tale of creativity and a desire to connect, but a journey through history. This tradition, born in Victorian England, has evolved while retaining its essence of spreading joy and goodwill, connecting us to generations past.

A Brief History of Christmas Cards

The tradition of Christmas cards can be traced back to 1843 in Victorian England. Sir Henry Cole, an innovator and assistant to Sir Rowland Hill (the man behind the Penny Post), wanted to encourage people to use the postal service. He commissioned the first commercial Christmas card, designed by John Callcott Horsley. The card featured a family enjoying a festive gathering, flanked by scenes of charitable acts. It bore the message, “A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You.” It was a simple yet powerful way to connect with others during the holidays.

The idea quickly caught on. By 1875, Louis Prang, a German immigrant in the United States, brought the tradition overseas, creating the first commercial Christmas cards in America. Prang’s designs focused on flowers, plants, and children—images that resonated with a growing audience. Then, in 1891, Annie Oakley, the famous sharpshooter, made history by sending the first personalized Christmas card while she was in Scotland. She used them to send holiday greetings to her friends and family in the United States.

Fast forward to 1915, and the Hall brothers (of Hallmark fame) introduced folded Christmas cards with images and messages inside, a design that remains popular today. By the mid-20th century, Christmas cards became cultural staples, often featuring idyllic banquet scenes, snowy landscapes, and illustrations by renowned artists such as Norman Rockwell and Salvador Dalí.

Today, Christmas cards have not only survived but have evolved with the times while remaining a beloved holiday tradition.

Cultural Variations Around the World

Though the general idea of exchanging holiday greetings is shared globally, how this tradition is celebrated varies significantly across cultures. This beautiful diversity is a reminder that, despite our differences, we all share the same spirit of joy and goodwill during the holiday season, uniting us in a shared celebration.

• Western Cultures: Exchanging Christmas cards is a deeply ingrained practice. It’s not just about family and friends; people also send cards to colleagues, acquaintances, and clients, making it a tradition that fosters both personal and professional relationships.
• Eastern Europe: Countries like Poland and Lithuania emphasize personal visits and verbal holiday greetings over written cards. While you might encounter a few cards occasionally, the focus is more on building face-to-face connections during family gatherings.
• Scandinavian Countries: Scandinavians’ creative and crafty spirit shines through their tradition of handmade Christmas cards. These often feature intricate folk art designs that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage—a woman fantastic of artistry and sentiment.
• Japan: While exchanging Christmas cards, Japan focuses on nengajo or New Year’s cards. These are sent to friends, family, and business associates to extend good wishes for the upcoming year, reflecting the Japanese emphasis on beginnings and renewal.
• Digital Trends Globally: As technology advances and environmental concerns rise, many cultures have embraced electronic Christmas cards (e-cards). These eco-friendly alternatives transcend physical borders and offer a convenient way to stay connected, especially as our world becomes more digitally interconnected.

The Modern Twist on Tradition

Like all traditions, giving Christmas cards has evolved to suit the times. The advent of technology has made it easier to design and send cards and introduced new ways to experience holiday greetings. While the sentiment remains the same, the digital era has brought exciting changes in sharing our holiday cheer.

Personalized Cards

One beautiful trend is the rise of customized cards featuring family photos, heartfelt messages, or even creative writing. There’s something incredibly touching about receiving a unique and tailor-made card.

Eco-Friendly Options

With growing awareness of environmental sustainability, many people now choose cards made from recycled materials or plantable seed paper. These options allow you to share your holiday cheer and contribute to a healthier planet, leaving a lighter footprint on the environment. By choosing eco-friendly cards, you’re not only spreading joy but also showing care for the Earth.

Digital Cards

Digital Christmas cards are increasingly popular for those who prefer convenience. They allow you to include interactive elements such as videos or animations, which can be sent instantly worldwide.

Interactive Cards

Want to go beyond traditional greetings? Many people opt for cards embedded with creative elements like sound recordings, videos, or AR (augmented reality) features. Imagine opening a card, hearing a personalized message, or seeing a festive animation come to life!

Supporting Small Businesses

Another heartwarming trend is purchasing cards from small businesses or local artists. Not only do these handcrafted cards stand out, but they also support creatives, fostering a sense of community.

Why Christmas Cards Still Matter

Amid all the modern conveniences we enjoy, handwritten Christmas cards remain a token of thoughtfulness. They represent an intentional pause in our busy lives—a moment where we sit down to think about someone, write a few heartfelt words, and send a piece of paper that carries far more than ink—it carries connection. It’s these personal connections that make the holiday season truly special.

No matter how you choose to participate—whether through a traditional card adorned with glitter, a photo card showcasing your family, or a joyful e-card that pops into your inbox—the essence lies in expressing care and connection. This simple act reminds us that personal gestures remain irreplaceable even in a world driven by technology.

A Tradition Worth Continuing

Giving Christmas cards has outlasted centuries of cultural, technological, and societal shifts, reminding us that some traditions are worth holding onto. They allow us to connect, share joy, and reflect the humanity that ties us together, even when we are miles apart, providing a comforting thread of continuity in a rapidly changing world.

If you’re inspired to send your Christmas cards this year, consider adding a personal touch or supporting a local artist. When choosing a card, think about the recipient’s personality and your relationship with them. Your card might be the highlight of someone’s holiday season. After all—who doesn’t love finding a little piece of joy in their mailbox?

Happy holidays, and may your cards bring as much warmth as they give.

References:

Why Give Christmas Gifts? Historical & Meaningful Gifts. https://gearcustoms.com/why-do-we-give-gifts-on-christmas/