National Letter Writing Day is a celebration of the timeless tradition of handwritten correspondence. It encourages people to slow down, reflect, and connect with loved ones through personal letters, offering a nostalgic escape from the fast-paced digital age.
Quick Facts
- When is it? December 7
- Tagged as: Fun Holiday, Communication
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalLetterWritingDay
- When was it founded? 2005
- Who founded it? United States Postal Service
History of National Letter Writing Day
The origins of National Letter Writing Day are rooted in the desire to revive letter writing as a cherished form of communication. Its practice dates back to ancient civilizations, where letters were written on wood, metal, and fabric. By the Victorian era, letter writing had become an essential skill and a vital means of connection. The day was officially established in 2005 by the United States Postal Service to promote traditional communication amidst the rise of digital alternatives.
Timeline
- 1494: Christopher Columbus writes a letter to King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella upon returning from America.
- 1847: The first U.S. postage stamps feature Benjamin Franklin and George Washington.
- 1918: Daily airmail flights begin between New York and Washington, D.C.
- 2013: The U.S. Postal Service starts Sunday deliveries for Amazon packages.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | December 7 | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 7 | Monday |
| 2027 | December 7 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | December 7 | Thursday |
| 2029 | December 7 | Friday |
| 2030 | December 7 | Saturday |
Observed
National Letter Writing Day is celebrated by writing letters to friends and family, crafting personalized stationery, and organizing letter exchanges. It’s a day to express gratitude, share memories, or simply reconnect with loved ones.
Fun Facts About National Letter Writing Day
- Letters were once written on materials like tree bark and ceramic plaques.
- The Penny Black, the world’s first postage stamp, was introduced in 1840 in the U.K.
- Famous historical figures like King Henry VIII used letters to convey romantic sentiments.
Quiz
- When is National Letter Writing Day celebrated?
- Who founded National Letter Writing Day?
- What was the first U.S. postage stamp design?
(Answers: 1. December 7; 2. United States Postal Service; 3. Benjamin Franklin and George Washington)
FAQs
Q: Why celebrate National Letter Writing Day?
A: It’s an opportunity to revive the art of handwritten communication, fostering deeper connections with loved ones.
Q: Can children participate?
A: Absolutely! Kids can write thank-you notes or draw pictures with messages for family or community members.
Q: Is letter writing still relevant today?
A: Yes! Handwritten letters offer a personal touch that digital communication often lacks.
Importance of National Letter Writing Day
This day highlights the emotional value of handwritten letters, which serve as keepsakes and expressions of thoughtfulness in an increasingly impersonal digital world.
Related
- World Letter Writing Day (September 1)
- International Postcard Week
- Handwriting Day