Christmas Cards: How to Choose, What to Write and When to Post

October 7, 2026

Christmas 2026 key dates (UK)

Black Friday: Friday 27 November
Advent Sunday: 29 November
Christmas Day: Friday 25 December
Boxing Day: Saturday 26 December (bank holiday Monday 28 December)
Last posting dates: Royal Mail usually recommends mid December for second class and a few days later for first class. Check Royal Mail for this year's exact dates.

A Christmas card is still the easiest way to tell someone you're thinking of them. The best ones match the person: a daft pun for your brother, something warm for your nan, something safe for the office.

Write a line that sounds like you rather than just signing your name, and post early. December queues and second class post catch everyone out.

Choosing the right Christmas card

Funny cards for friends, siblings and colleagues
Warm, traditional cards for parents and grandparents
Cards for a partner: romantic or cheeky
Charity cards that give something back
A first Christmas card for a new baby or couple

Christmas card messages for family

Merry Christmas to my favourite people. Save me a pig in blanket.
Wishing you a cosy Christmas and a happy, healthy new year.
Thank you for every Christmas you've made special. Love you lots.

Christmas card messages for friends

Merry Christmas! Here's to mince pies, bad jumpers and good company.
Another year of putting up with me. You deserve this card.
Have a sparkly Christmas and a brilliant new year.

Christmas card messages for work

Season's greetings and thanks for a great year.
Wishing you a relaxing Christmas and a happy new year.
Thanks for all your help this year. Enjoy the break!

When to post Christmas cards

Abroad: early December
UK second class: about a week before the last posting day
UK first class: a few days later
Check Royal Mail's final dates each year

How to write it so it lands

Write one personal line.
Post early in December.
Match the card to the person.

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Frequently asked questions

When should I send Christmas cards?

Post abroad in early December and UK cards by Royal Mail's last posting days in mid December.

What should I write in a Christmas card?

A greeting, one personal line and your name. A shared memory or joke makes it feel special.

Who should I send Christmas cards to?

Family, close friends, neighbours and anyone who helped you this year, such as teachers or carers.

What is a good example of christmas cards guide?

"Funny cards for friends, siblings and colleagues" is one of 18 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.