Not Sure What to Write in Your Christmas Cards? Here Are 25 Clever Ways to Say, "Season's Greetings!"

woman writing a christmas card
25 Cheerful Greetings to Write in a Christmas CardGetty Images

There’s something special about the tradition of sending a personalized, handwritten Christmas card to friends and loved ones around the holidays. From picking out your favorite card design to penning a heartwarming holiday greeting, the gesture feels both personal and intimate. But for some, figuring out what to write in a Christmas card is tricky — it can feel almost as daunting as taking down all your holiday decorations!

Luckily, the wording of your Christmas card doesn't have to be complicated. You can fall back on phrases like “Merry Christmas” that are simple and to the point, come up with a funny quip, or quote your favorite holiday movie. Keep in mind, however, that the holiday season can be a difficult time of year for some, so it’s important to be mindful of who you’re sending your Christmas cards to and the kind of message they might need.

If you need a little inspiration for what to write in a Christmas card, here are 25 ideas that strike the right balance of sweet and sincere.

“Have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”

It might be a generic holiday greeting, but it’s a solid go-to if you’re filling out dozens of cards or sending a batch to distant acquaintances you may not know very well.

“Merry Christmahanakwanzika to you and yours!”

For the families celebrating a little bit of everything this holiday season.

“I hope you’re 'simply having a wonderful Christmastime!'”

A great one-liner for the family member whose favorite holiday tunes are oldies-but-goodies. Grandfathers and boomer dads are the target audience.

“Have yourself a merry little Christmas!”

For the Judy Garland fans.

“If you’re reading this card, congratulations! You made my nice list.”

If there were any doubt in their mind, consider it expunged.

“The Heat Miser’s hair is red, the Snow Miser’s suit is blue. Santa pardoned their mischief, so I guess I’ll forgive yours, too!”

Anyone on the naughty list is sure to prefer this sassy poem (referencing the classic holiday special, The Year Without a Santa Claus) to a lump of coal.

“I’d have a 'Blue Christmas' without you!”

Elvis fans will pick up on the “Blue Christmas” reference quickly, but even if your recipient doesn’t recognize The King’s lyrics, they’ll appreciate the sweet sentiment regardless.

“Sending you a season’s greeting with hopes that this note makes it a little more merry and bright.”

Even the simplest of statements can go a long way.

“I hope this card warms your heart when the weather outside is frightful.”

The holiday season coincides with the beginning of winter, but not even a chunky knit blanket can warm their heart as much as a card from you!

“Thank you for bringing so much joy to my world.”

'Tis the season to let your loved ones know how much they mean to you.

“If I’m not home for Christmas, at least you’ll have this card!”

Your presence will surely be missed, but a sweet note to your family can help smooth things over.

“All I want for Christmas is you (OK, and some other things, but that’s between me and Santa)!”

Mariah Carey’s classic holiday song is a hit for a reason.

“Thinking of you this holiday season.”

For struggling families and those who’ve lost their loved ones, the holidays can be a difficult time of year. Sometimes the most meaningful words you can write in a Christmas card are the simplest ones.

“May your days be merry and your meals free of awkward conversation.”

Here’s hoping they’ll break bread, not bonds.

“Cheers to a New Year with old friends.”

The years come and go, but the best of friends remain through it all.

“Eat, drink, be merry, repeat!”

A particularly clever inscription for any holiday cards that accompany a wine and cheese-filled gift basket.

“Have a cup of cheer (or something stronger, if need be)!”

Because we all know the holiday season isn’t always smooth sailing.

“Wishing you a holiday season so full of love that your heart grows three sizes.”

A reference to How the Grinch Stole Christmas that will never get old.

“Last Christmas, I gave you my heart, so this Christmas, I’m giving you a card.”

From one spouse to another.

“Joy to the world, the Lord has come!”

A heartfelt greeting if you and your recipient observe the religious aspect of Christmas.

“Love is the best gift we can receive. Thank you for all you’ve given me this past year.”

The true meaning of Christmas can get lost in commercialism. The best gifts aren't bought — they're felt in the heart.

“Christmas may look a little different as an adult, but at least we get to eat the cookies now.”

Silver linings, right?

“Merry Christmas, you cotton-headed ninny muggins!”

Any and all Elf quotes are sure to be a hit.

“May your Christmas be white (but if you run out of white, break out the red).”

The quintessential holiday greeting for wine lovers everywhere.

“If you’re feeling low on Christmas spirit, just remember, ‘seeing isn’t believing, believing is seeing.’”

It worked for Tim Allen!

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