Sending Christmas cards in Portugal is a wonderful way to share festive wishes and maintain tradition. While it’s less widespread than in the UK or Ireland, many Portuguese still enjoy exchanging cards. Let’s have a quick look at where you can find some and what you can write in them for your Portuguese friends.
Where to Find Christmas Cards 🎄
If you’re looking to purchase Christmas cards in Portugal, here are some great places to consider. Christmas cards are called cartões de Natal and postcards are postais de Natal.
- Fnac – Found in major cities, Fnac offers a wide range of stationery, including some festive cards. Their stores typically have stylish, modern designs alongside traditional options.
- Livraria Bertrand – Known as the world’s oldest bookstore, Bertrand offers a charming collection of books and stationery, including seasonal cards. Their flagship store in Lisbon’s Chiado district is particularly delightful during Christmas​.
- Supermarkets – Retail chains like Continente, Pingo Doce, and El Corte Inglés often stock a selection of Christmas cards during the holiday season, ranging from simple to ornate.
- Craft Markets – Craft fairs, are a great place to you find unique, handcrafted cards.
- Online – Websites like Amazon or Etsy allow you to order cards in Portuguese. Look for designs with greetings like “Feliz Natal” or “Boas Festas”.
These are some I found in Lidl this year.
Tradition in Decline
Christmas cards in Portugal have seen a decline over the years, much like in many other countries. Factors contributing to this include the widespread use of digital communication, such as emails, social media, and instant messaging, which are more immediate and often free. However, for some families and individuals, sending physical Christmas cards remains a meaningful practice, especially among older generations or for more formal greetings.
The cards themselves often feature traditional imagery, including nativity scenes, festive landscapes, and Portuguese cultural motifs. Additionally, some people choose handmade or artisan cards to add a personal touch.
What to Write in Portuguese
Adding a personal touch to your Christmas cards can make them even more special. If you’re looking for inspiration, here are some popular festive greetings in Portuguese:
- Boas festas cheias de alegria, amor e paz! (Happy holidays filled with joy, love, and peace!)
- Que o prĂłximo ano seja repleto de saĂşde, prosperidade e felicidade! (May the coming year be full of health, prosperity, and happiness!)
- Desejo-te um Natal maravilhoso e um novo ano cheio de realizações! (Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a New Year full of achievements!)
- Que este Natal traga muitas alegrias para ti e para os teus! (May this Christmas bring lots of joy to you and your loved ones!)
- Um Feliz Ano Novo com novas aventuras e grandes conquistas! (A Happy New Year with new adventures and great achievements!)
- Feliz Natal e um sapatinho cheio de saĂşde, amor e paz! (Merry Christmas and a stocking full of health, love, and peace!)
- Que o espĂrito natalĂcio aqueça os vossos corações e ilumine o vosso lar! (May the Christmas spirit warm your hearts and brighten your home!)
- Desejo-te umas festas mágicas rodeadas de amigos e famĂlia! (Wishing you magical holidays surrounded by friends and family!)
- Que todos os teus desejos se realizem neste Natal e no ano que vem! (May all your wishes come true this Christmas and in the coming year!)
- Boas saĂdas e melhores entradas para um ano novo inesquecĂvel! (Good farewells and even better beginnings for an unforgettable New Year!)
CTT’s Letters to Santa: A Portuguese Tradition ✉️
Since 1985, children in Portugal have been sending letters to Santa Claus, and the CTT (Portuguese postal service) helps keep this tradition alive. Every year, a dedicated team ensures that every letter is answered with a special reply and a small gift, nurturing the magic of Christmas.
Parents and teachers often encourage this activity, as it fosters creativity, writing skills, and the joy of exchanging letters. Moreover, it’s an especially meaningful practice in our digital age. Best of all, these letters don’t require postage stamps, but a return address is essential for Santa’s reply.
Why not introduce your children or students to this lovely tradition and help them discover the charm of sending letters?