Introduction
Letter typically included with a Christmas card For a document signed by multiple parties to hide the leader's identity, see Round-robin (document). For the US Army's letter of the Spanish–American War, see Round-Robin Letter (Spanish-American War). A round-robin letter or Christmas letter is a letter, typically included with a Christmas card and sent to multiple recipients at the end of the year, in which the writer describes the year's events for themselves and/or their family. The round-robin letter has been the subject of much ridicule, particularly from the Guardian journalist Simon Hoggart, who pilloried examples of the genre in his newspaper column, as well as writing the book The Hamster That Loved Puccini: The Seven Modern Sins of Christmas Round-robin Letters. One example Hoggart cited read:
"Harry was Jesus in the school Jesus Christ, Superstar. This was the best production I have ever seen, youth or adult. Both boys, especially Harry, were physically and emotionally drained at the end. I was drained too… seeing your son crucified nightly is not an experience I would recommend." Critics have drawn attention to a number of typical negative characteristics of the letters, including the airbrushing of bad news, the "excruciating" level of banal detail, and the implied egocentricity and boastfulness of the sender.
Why the round‑robin survives the digital age
Even as emails and social media dominate end‑of‑year updates, the round‑robin letter remains a niche tradition because it offers a tangible, curated snapshot of a family’s year. The physical card acts as a keepsake, allowing recipients to revisit the narrative long after the festive hustle has faded. In Britain, where pen‑to‑paper correspondence still carries sentimental weight, the practice fits neatly into the ritual of sending Christmas cards. It also gives the writer a chance to structure the year’s events as a story, selecting moments that reflect personal values rather than the relentless stream of online updates. The ritual of handwriting, even if only a few sentences, adds a personal flourish that a status update can’t replicate.
How to write a round‑robin that doesn’t feel like a brag sheet
Start with a brief, friendly greeting that acknowledges the recipient, then limit the yearly recap to three or four highlights—big or small. Mix achievements with honest, relatable moments; a modest mishap or a quiet triumph balances the tone. Avoid the temptation to list every school play, birthday party, or house renovation; instead, pick anecdotes that illustrate a theme, such as resilience or community. Keep language conversational, as if you were chatting over a cuppa, and steer clear of superlatives that sound self‑congratulatory. End with a genuine wish for the reader’s own holidays, reminding them that the letter is a bridge, not a billboard for personal glory.
Common pitfalls and how to sidestep them
One frequent error is the “air‑brushed” year, where any hint of difficulty is omitted, leaving the letter feeling unreal. Readers appreciate authenticity, so a brief nod to a challenge—perhaps a health scare or a job change—adds credibility. Another trap is over‑detail: endless mentions of school grades or garden statistics can overwhelm the reader. Aim for brevity; a sentence or two per highlight keeps the pacing lively. Finally, steer clear of inside jokes that only a handful will grasp; remember the round‑robin reaches a varied audience, so the humour should be inclusive. A quick proofread for tone and length ensures the letter feels warm rather than a self‑promotional pamphlet.