NATIONAL WEEK

Universal Letter Writing Week

This week, we celebrate the joy of handwritten letters, a meaningful way to connect with others.

WHEN
Second full week of January
Roots
Founder unknown
Vibe
Nostalgic, heartfelt, and personal
Hashtag
#UniversalLetterWritingWeek
Send a cardEmail a friend

Fast facts

14%Of Americans have never written a letter
18%Have never written a thank-you note

The story

Universal Letter Writing Week takes place every January beginning the second Sunday, inviting individuals to embrace the art of letter writing. In a world increasingly dominated by digital communication, this week serves as a reminder of the personal touch that handwritten notes provide. Though its founder is unknown, the observance aims to revive interest in writing as a tangible form of connection.

Read the full story

During this week, people from all walks of life are encouraged to take a moment to sit down, pen in hand, and compose letters. Whether it’s a heartfelt note to a loved one, a postcard from a vacation destination, or a simple thank-you card to a friend, each letter carries a unique personal touch that an email simply cannot replicate. The act of writing can be therapeutic, allowing writers to express their thoughts and feelings in a more deliberate way.

Schools and communities often engage in letter writing projects during this week, fostering both creativity and communication skills among participants. Children learn the value of expressing themselves, while adults are reminded of the joy that comes from receiving a handwritten letter. This week not only promotes literacy but also builds connections across distances and generations, as recipients often cherish these tangible tokens of affection.

As we celebrate Universal Letter Writing Week, consider the impact of your words on paper. In a time when technology often overshadows personal interaction, take a step back to engage in this beautiful tradition. Gather your favorite writing materials, find a quiet space, and let your thoughts flow onto the page, your letters may bring joy to someone far away and help strengthen your connections to those you hold dear.

Worth knowing

01

Send a Letter

Rekindle connections by sending handwritten letters this week.

02

Gather Supplies

Collect your favorite stationery and pens to inspire creativity.

03

Organize Events

Host a letter writing night with friends or family.

04

Share Online

Post your letter writing experiences on social media.

Did you know?

01

The First Known Letter

Queen Atossa of Persia is credited with the first handwritten letter, around 500 B.C.

02

National Letter Writing Month

April is designated as National Letter Writing Month in the United States.

03

The Pen Pal Phenomenon

Pen pals became popular in the 20th century, connecting people globally.

04

Letters in History

Famous letters have influenced history, including those by Martin Luther King Jr.

05

The Decline of Letters

Email and text messaging have led to a significant decline in letter writing.

06

Global Letter Writing

Many cultures still value letter writing as a form of communication.

07

Writing for Mental Health

Studies suggest that writing letters can improve mental well-being.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesA country where letter writing has deep historical roots.
  • GBUnited KingdomHome to famous letter writers like Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.
  • CACanadaEncouraging Canadians to connect through written correspondence.
  • AUAustraliaCelebrating the art of letter writing across the continent.
  • DEGermanyEmphasizing traditional communication practices.
  • FRFranceA nation known for its rich literary culture and correspondence.

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