Card Reading Day: A Celebration of Sentiment and Connection
Card Reading Day is a delightful holiday that encourages people to revisit and cherish the greeting cards they’ve received over the years. Observed annually on February 21, it’s a time to reflect on the emotions and memories captured in those heartfelt messages. Whether it’s a birthday card, thank-you note, or holiday greeting, each card holds a unique story worth revisiting.
Quick Facts
- When is it? February 21
- Tagged as: Sentimental, Nostalgic, Greeting Cards
- What’s the hashtag? #CardReadingDay
- When was it founded? Late 1990s
- Who founded it? Unknown
History of Card Reading Day
Card Reading Day emerged in the late 1990s as a way to celebrate the emotional impact of greeting cards. While its exact origins remain unclear, the day highlights the tradition of sending and receiving cards as a meaningful form of communication. Greeting cards have been used for centuries, from ancient Egyptian inscriptions to the mass production of Valentine’s and Christmas cards in Europe. Despite the rise of digital communication, physical cards continue to hold sentimental value.
Timeline
- 15th Century: The tradition of exchanging engraved greetings begins in Europe.
- 1840: Introduction of postage stamps in England boosts card exchanges.
- 1860s: Greeting cards gain widespread popularity in the U.S. during their commercialization phase.
- 1990s: Card Reading Day is established to celebrate the joy of reading and sending cards.
Card Reading Day Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 21 | Friday |
| 2026 | February 21 | Saturday |
| 2027 | February 21 | Sunday |
| 2028 | February 21 | Monday |
| 2029 | February 21 | Wednesday |
| 2030 | February 21 | Thursday |
Observed on Card Reading Day
Card Reading Day is observed with activities that bring people closer to their cherished memories and loved ones:
- Revisit Old Cards: Take out your collection of greeting cards and relive the emotions they evoke. Share these moments with family or friends for added joy.
- Send New Cards: Brighten someone’s day by sending a thoughtful card with a heartfelt message.
- Host a Card Party: Invite friends to share their favorite cards or create new ones together, fostering connection and creativity.
Fun Facts About Card Reading Day
- The first known Christmas card was created in 1843 by John Callcott Horsley.
- Over seven billion greeting cards are purchased annually in the U.S.
- Valentine’s Day cards are among the most popular seasonal greetings.
Quiz
- What date is Card Reading Day celebrated?
(Answer: February 21) - Who is credited with creating the first Christmas card?
(Answer: John Callcott Horsley) - What year were postage stamps introduced in England?
(Answer: 1840) - Which type of greeting card is most popular for everyday use?
(Answer: Birthday cards) - In which century did engraved greetings first appear?
(Answer: 15th Century)
FAQs
What is Card Reading Day about?
It’s a day to appreciate and revisit greeting cards received over the years, celebrating their sentimental value.
Can I celebrate with digital cards?
While physical cards are emphasized, digital cards can also be revisited or sent to mark the day.
Do I need to send a card on this day?
It’s not mandatory but sending a card can add joy to someone’s day.
Why are greeting cards significant?
They serve as tangible reminders of love, gratitude, and special moments.
How can kids participate?
Kids can create handmade cards or participate in activities like card treasure hunts.
Importance of Card Reading Day
- Preserving Sentiment: This day reminds us of the emotional power of handwritten messages, which often hold more meaning than digital communication.
- Strengthening Bonds: Revisiting old cards fosters connections with loved ones by reliving shared memories.
- Encouraging Tradition: It promotes keeping alive the tradition of sending physical greeting cards despite modern digital trends.
Related Holidays
- Valentine’s Day (February 14)
- National Handwriting Day (January 23)
- World Post Day (October 9)