National Send a Card to a Friend Day (February 7)

February 7 is the perfect time to brighten someone’s day with a handwritten note for National Send a Card to a Friend Day.

This simple gesture connects us in a meaningful way, celebrating the tradition of sending heartfelt messages through the mail.

Keep reading to explore fun activities, history, and creative ideas to make the most of this day. And yes, it’s one of the unusual holidays in February you’ll love celebrating!

When is the Holiday?

National Send a Card to a Friend Day takes place every year on February 7th.

This day encourages us to step away from the fast-paced world of texts and emails to reconnect through the personal touch of a handwritten card.

Who Invented It?

The creator of the day is unknown, adding an air of mystery to this thoughtful tradition.

While the holiday may have modern roots in promoting greeting card sales, its sentiment runs much deeper.

It’s believed to have grown out of the human need to foster meaningful connections—reminding us of the enduring charm of receiving a heartfelt note in the mail.

This holiday highlights the nostalgia and joy tied to physical cards, a practice cherished for centuries.

The History of the Holiday

Sending messages on paper dates back thousands of years.

Ancient Egyptians used papyrus, and early Chinese cultures exchanged notes on folded paper.

By the 1400s, greeting cards became popular in Europe, evolving during the Victorian era as an essential part of celebrations like Christmas and Valentine’s Day.

The tradition grew with the founding of Hallmark in 1910, solidifying cards as an enduring way to connect with others.

pink cards with envelopes

Top 5 Facts About the Holiday

  1. A handwritten card creates a lasting emotional connection – Studies show that receiving a physical card feels more personal and meaningful than a digital message, making it a treasured keepsake.
  2. The first commercially printed card appeared in the 1840s – Louis Prang, often called the “father of the American Christmas card,” popularized card printing, paving the way for today’s greeting card industry.
  3. Greeting card sales exceed 6 billion annually worldwide – Despite the rise of digital communication, greeting cards remain a thriving industry, proving the timeless appeal of sending thoughtful messages.
  4. E-cards emerged in 1995 but haven’t replaced physical cards – While digital cards are convenient, they lack the tactile and emotional impact of holding a beautifully crafted card in your hands.
  5. Many people keep special cards as cherished memories – Surveys reveal that over 80% of people save cards they’ve received, especially those tied to major milestones or heartfelt messages.

Activities to Celebrate

  • Get creative with handmade cards – Use pressed flowers, origami techniques, or even potato stamps to craft unique, personalized cards that truly stand out.
  • Throw a card-making party – Gather friends or family for a fun crafting session. Provide supplies like markers, stickers, and colorful paper to spark creativity and make it a memorable group activity.
  • Send free printable cards – Choose from a variety of designs online, print them out, and add a personal touch with a handwritten note or doodle.
  • Reconnect with heartfelt notes – Write a thoughtful message to someone you haven’t connected with in a while. Share a favorite memory or simply let them know they’re in your thoughts.
  • Pair your card with a small surprise – Slip in a photo, a pressed flower, or even a homemade treat for an extra-special touch that will brighten someone’s day.
little boy giving his mom a card

Links to Resources

  • Free Printable Star Wars Cards. Perfect for fans of the galaxy far, far away! These coloring cards add a touch of fun and creativity to National Send a Card to a Friend Day.
  • Pressed Flower Greeting Card Tutorial. Create elegant, nature-inspired cards with this easy-to-follow guide. A great way to add a personal and artistic flair to your greetings.
  • DIY Pop-Up Heart Cards. Learn how to make charming pop-up heart cards with a simple tutorial that’s fun for kids and adults alike. Ideal for spreading love and smiles.
  • Sushi-Themed Printable Cards. Delight your sushi-loving friends with these quirky and adorable printable cards featuring playful designs and pun-filled messages.
  • Coffee Filter Heart Cards with Printables – A sweet craft idea that’s perfect for kids. These colorful, heart-shaped cards use simple materials to create a heartfelt keepsake.
  • 3 Printable Note Cards for Any Occasion – Need a quick card for a thank you, birthday, or just to say hello? These printable note cards are easy to customize and print at home for any event.

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