The bells are jingling, the house is covered in glitter and The Pogues are on every radio station. It must be Christmas. And, just to top things off, you're likely receiving cards from neighbours and loved ones wishing you a merry old time.

Whether you're a fan of Christmas cards or not you'll probably be sending one or two to your close family and friends, at least. Because let's be honest, it would be rude-olf you not to.

Cards are an always thoughtful way to send a message during the festive season. While you can add "Merry Christmas" to your email signature or share a 'Happy Xmas' over text, a Christmas card filled with sentimental Christmas wishes is a much better way to say 'I care'.

Our guide has the perfect Christmas greetings for any situation - from funny Christmas quotes to Christmas wishes for friends and loved ones.

Classic Christmas wishes

From festive quotes to caring words, these messages are perfect for friends or family in the run-up to Christmas. Get your best pen ready!

Have yourself a Merry little Christmas, let your heart be light.

May this Christmas season bring you closer to all those that you treasure in your heart. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New year!

I hope Santa is good to you this year because you only deserve the best. Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

Take nothing for granted and be thankful that you have such great family and friends to spend this joyous season with. Wishing you a delightful Christmas.

Wishing you and your family health, happiness, peace and prosperity this Christmas and in the coming New Year.

Funny Christmas messages

Have a friend who appreciates a cheesy festive joke or two? Then we have some great messages here which are very different from the classic 'Merry Christmas' wishes.

Yay! It's Christmas! Let's buy loads of stuff no one needs!

Whoever said 'all is calm' has never been to our house around Christmas. Some might say we're not very bright, either.

I only got you a card in case you got me one...

You can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle three things: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled Christmas tree lights.

I hope you like the present you told me to buy for you.

Merry Christmas messages to friends

This is your time to throw in a little inside joke between friends - don't miss the chance. Here are some of our favourite Christmassy messages for inspiration.

I hope your Christmas is as wonderful as you are.

Your friendship and your love is the best Christmas gift that I've ever received.

This is the message of Christmas: We are never alone.

Festive family messages

Family Christmas cards are great for sending to the relatives you won't get a chance to see during the season - so let's get the message right and be a little... Santa-mental (we're sorry).

Christmas greetings: verses

For when you just don't have the words, let others fill the card for you. These are some great verses which are sure to be a hit.

Christmas love messages

Sending a card to the love of your life or a secret crush? We have the perfect messages to sign (seal and deliver) this Christmas.

I wouldn't want to spend Christmas with anyone else.

Our life together just keeps getting better. I'm so grateful that I can share my Christmas with you.

I'd eat brussel sprouts for you.

There's only one thing better than Christmas and that's Christmas with you.

Let's be naughty and save Santa the trip!

You're the partridge to my pear tree.

I love you from my head to my mistletoe.

If I only had one mince pie I'd give it to you.

Movie and music messages

Have yourself a merry little Christmas.

Merry Christmas, you filthy animal.

Santa! Oh My God Santa's coming... I know him!