From Paper to Digital Stickers: The Evolution of Chinese New Year Greetings

 

For generations, Chinese New Year greetings were expressed through handwritten cards. Sending a greeting card via postage delivery was a thoughtful ritual—choosing auspicious words, writing carefully, and mailing it well before the new year. I remember helping my Dad sending out these greeting cards during CNY. He would always remind me that the writing must be readable especially the address and must put in the return address. My dad may not be highly educated but he has the best handwriting in the family and grandfather writes like a doctor.

These greeting cards upon receiving were displayed at home or kept as mementos, making greetings tangible and personal.

The top 2 smaller greeting cards are from my grandfather in the year 1940s or 1950s while the bottom is mine from late 1990s.  Spot the difference in the size of the card

Today, Chinese New Year greetings are dominated by WhatsApp images, stickers, animations, and short videos.While the medium has evolved, the intention remains the same, wishing everyone prosperity, health, and harmony