NATIONAL WEEK

International Postcard Week

Celebrate the joy of postcards, a tangible link to memories and connections.

WHEN

October 1-7

Roots: First celebrated in 2011
Vibe: Warm, nostalgic, and creative
Hashtag: #InternationalPostcardWeek

Send a card Email a friend

Fast facts

Over 2 millionPostcards sent annually

Participating countries: 50+

The story

International Postcard Week occurs every year during the first full week of October, inviting people from all corners of the globe to celebrate the simple joy of sending and receiving postcards. This unique event began in 2011 when a small group of postcard enthusiasts wanted to promote the art of mailing, and it has since blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon.

Read the full story

During this week, individuals, families, and communities come together to create and share postcards, often showcasing local art, photography, and personal messages. The appeal of postcards lies not only in their visual aesthetics but also in their ability to convey heartfelt sentiments across distances. In a world dominated by digital communication, this tradition offers a refreshing way to connect.

One of the most delightful aspects of International Postcard Week is the sense of community it fosters. Participants often engage in postcard exchanges, where they send cards to people they may never meet, creating a web of connections. This year's theme, “Postcards from the Heart,” encourages senders to express their feelings and share personal stories through their messages.

As the week progresses, local events such as postcard crafting workshops and writing parties pop up, allowing participants to immerse themselves in this nostalgic art form. Whether you're a seasoned postcard collector or a first-time sender, International Postcard Week is an opportunity to celebrate creativity, connection, and the joy of snail mail.

Worth knowing

Send a Postcard

Take a moment to send a postcard to someone you care about. It could be a simple 'Hello' or a detailed update, either way, it's a cherished gesture.

Create Your Own

Unleash your creativity by designing your own postcards. Use drawings, photos, or collages to make something truly unique to send.

Join a Swap

Connect with postcard enthusiasts by joining a postcard swap. Exchange cards with people from different parts of the world and broaden your horizons.

Host a Writing Party

Gather friends for a postcard writing party. Provide various postcards and art supplies for a fun and social way to celebrate the week.

Did you know?

First Postcard

The first official postcard was issued in Austria in 1869.

Postcard Collecting

Postcard collecting is known as deltiology, a term derived from the Greek word for 'a record'.

World Postcard Day

World Postcard Day is celebrated on October 1, leading into International Postcard Week.

Postcard Popularity

Postcards gained immense popularity in the early 1900s, particularly as travel became more accessible.

Art on Postcards

Many artists create limited edition postcards, turning them into collectible art pieces.

Postcard Postage

In the U.S., postcards have their own postal rate, which is typically lower than standard letters.

Digital vs. Physical

Despite the rise of digital communication, physical postcards continue to enjoy popularity among enthusiasts.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesIn the U.S., postcards have been a beloved means of communication since the late 19th century, with many collectors cherishing vintage cards.
GBUnited KingdomThe UK boasts a rich postcard history, and many towns celebrate local landmarks through their unique postcard designs.
AUAustraliaAustralia's postcard culture includes stunning landscapes and wildlife, making them popular souvenirs for travelers.
FRFranceIn France, postcards often feature picturesque scenes of Paris and countryside, capturing the essence of French culture.
ITItalyItaly's postcards are adorned with exquisite art and architecture, inviting recipients to experience its rich history.
JPJapanJapan's postcards blend traditional art with modern design, reflecting the country's unique cultural heritage.