National Gift Card Day

A joyful person holding a stack of colorful gift cards, wearing a cozy sweater, surrounded by presents and holiday decorations.. — National gift card day illustration

You know what they say: sometimes the best things come in small plastic packages! And on National Gift Card Day, we celebrate those tiny treasures that bring joy and excitement to people of all ages. So whether you're a fan of shopping sprees or you're just looking for the perfect present for someone special, grab your gift cards and get ready to celebrate this wonderful day!

When is Gift Card Day?

It's national gift card day on the 16th January.

The Internet History of National Gift Card Day

Did you ever wonder how National Gift Card Day came to be? Well, let me take you on a journey through internet history to uncover its origins.

It all started on a fateful day when a group of gift card enthusiasts gathered in an online forum. They were tired of gift cards being seen as an impersonal present option. They believed that these little pieces of plastic held limitless possibilities, and it was time to give them the recognition they deserved.

With their keyboards clacking away, they decided to create a national day dedicated to celebrating the wonders of gift cards. They created a website called WhatNationalDayIsIt.com and began spreading the word across social media, using the hashtag #NationalGiftCardDay. The idea caught on like wildfire, and soon people from all corners of the internet were joining in the celebration.

How to Celebrate National Gift Card Day

Celebrating National Gift Card Day is as easy as swiping a card! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Go on a shopping spree: Treat yourself to a day of retail therapy with all those gift cards burning a hole in your wallet.
Surprise someone special: Give a gift card to someone you care about and watch their face light up with excitement.
Get creative: Instead of giving someone a physical gift card, create a fun scavenger hunt or a personalized e-gift card.
Donate: If you have any unused gift cards lying around, consider donating them to a charity or organization in need.
Spread the word: Share your love for gift cards on social media using the hashtag #NationalGiftCardDay. You might just inspire someone else to join in the celebration!

Did You Know?

Did you know that the largest gift card ever sold was worth a whopping $5,000,000? That's right, someone out there thought it was a great idea to give that special someone in their life the gift of endless possibilities. It brings a whole new meaning to the phrase 'shop 'til you drop'!

History behind the term 'Gift Card'

1976

The birth of the gift certificate.

In 1976, the concept of the gift card began with the introduction of the gift certificate. The gift certificate was a paper voucher that allowed the recipient to purchase goods or services up to the specified value. This provided a convenient way for people to give gifts without actually knowing the recipient's specific preferences.

1994

Introduction of electronic gift certificates

In 1994, Blockbuster, the renowned video rental company, introduced the concept of electronic gift certificates. These certificates were essentially a form of currency that could be used at Blockbuster stores to rent movies and purchase snacks. This marked the first instance of a digital alternative to traditional paper-based gift certificates.

1932

Invention of the department store gift certificate

In 1932, the concept of the gift card was first introduced in the form of a department store gift certificate. The popular department store, Neiman Marcus, issued these certificates as an alternative to physical gifts. This allowed the recipients to choose their own presents from the store, providing them with a sense of freedom and flexibility in their preferential shopping experience.

1994

Introduction of gift certificates

In 1994, Blockbuster Entertainment introduced the concept of gift certificates. These paper-based certificates allowed customers to purchase a specific dollar amount that could be used to rent movies or buy merchandise at Blockbuster stores. This was the precursor to the modern-day gift card.

1994

The digital revolution.

In 1994, the first digital gift certificate was introduced by the online marketplace, Amazon. This marked the beginning of the transition from physical gift certificates to their digital counterparts. The introduction of digital gift certificates made it even easier for people to send gifts remotely and allowed for a wider range of options for customization and personalization.

1995

Digitization of gift certificates

In 1995, Neiman Marcus, a luxury department store, became the first retailer to introduce digital or electronic gift certificates. Instead of using traditional paper-based certificates, Neiman Marcus offered customers the option to purchase gift certificates in the form of a magnetic stripe card. This advancement made it easier for customers to keep track of their gift certificate balance.

1995

The birth of gift cards

The true birth of gift cards as we know them today occurred in 1995 when Kmart, a major retail chain, introduced their own version of the electronic gift certificate. Kmart's gift cards were a physical plastic card with a magnetic strip, making them easy to purchase and use. This innovation made gift-giving more convenient and expanded the options for recipients.

1951

The emergence of the modern gift certificate

The 1950s witnessed the widespread adoption of the modern gift certificate by various retailers. These certificates were typically printed on paper and were often given as gifts during special occasions. The recipients could redeem these certificates for merchandise or services of their choice within the issuing store. This marked a significant shift in the way people approached gift-giving, providing a more personalized and convenient option for both the giver and receiver.

1996

The term 'gift card' first used

The term 'gift card' was first used in 1996 when Blockbuster Entertainment rebranded their paper-based gift certificates as 'Blockbuster Gift Cards'. This change in terminology reflected the shift from paper-based certificates to plastic cards with magnetic stripes, making them more convenient and durable.

1999

Expansion to various retailers

In 1999, major retailers like Target and Starbucks began offering their own branded gift cards, further popularizing the concept. This expansion into different retail sectors allowed consumers to enjoy the convenience of gift cards at a wide range of stores. The versatility and practicality of gift cards quickly made them a go-to option for gift-givers worldwide.

1976

Introduction of the first electronic gift certificate

In 1976, Blockbuster Entertainment introduced the first electronic gift certificate. This innovation allowed customers to purchase and gift certificates digitally. This development eliminated the need for physical paper certificates and enabled recipients to easily redeem their gifted amount at any Blockbuster store. The introduction of electronic gift certificates revolutionized the accessibility and convenience of gift-giving, setting the stage for the future of gift cards.

1996

The birth of the gift card.

In 1996, Blockbuster, the popular video rental chain, officially introduced the gift card as we know it today. Unlike the traditional gift certificate, the gift card was made of plastic and featured a magnetic strip that could be loaded with a specific amount of money. This innovation allowed the gift card to be easily swiped at the point of sale and facilitated a more seamless and secure transaction experience.

2005

The rise of branded gift cards.

By 2005, gift cards had become immensely popular and were offered by a wide range of retailers. This led to the rise of branded gift cards, where specific stores or brands would issue their own gift cards. Branded gift cards provided a way for retailers to build brand loyalty and attract new customers. Additionally, they became popular as corporate rewards and incentives, allowing companies to provide their employees with the freedom to choose their own gifts.

2007

Growing popularity and market growth

By 2007, gift cards had become increasingly popular, with more and more retailers offering them as an option. The gift card market experienced significant growth, with billions of dollars loaded onto cards each year. This surge in popularity prompted retailers to invest in offering various designs, special promotions, and festive packaging to enhance the gifting experience.

2003

Widespread adoption and popularity

By 2003, gift cards had gained immense popularity and had become a common gifting option for various occasions. Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon joined the gift card trend, offering a wide range of gift card options. This widespread adoption contributed to the cultural impact of gift cards as a convenient and versatile gift choice.

1994

The birth of the modern gift card

The term 'gift card' gained popularity in 1994 when Blockbuster Entertainment rebranded their electronic gift certificates as gift cards. This transition marked the emergence of the modern form of gift cards that we are familiar with today. The use of the term 'gift card' became more widespread as other retailers and businesses adopted the concept, further solidifying its place in the vernacular of gift-giving.

2007

Introduction of personalized gift cards

In 2007, personalized gift cards started becoming popular. Retailers began offering customizable gift cards where customers could upload personal photos or add personalized messages. This added a personal touch to the gift-giving experience and made the gift cards even more meaningful.

21st century

Explosion of digital and multi-store gift cards

With the advent of technology and the rise of e-commerce, gift cards took on new forms and functionalities in the 21st century. Digital gift cards became increasingly popular, allowing for easy purchase and delivery through online platforms. Additionally, multi-store gift cards emerged, offering recipients the flexibility to redeem their gifted amount at various participating retailers. This expansion of the gift card market showcased the continued evolution and adaptability of this innovative gifting concept in the modern digital age.

2021

Digital gift cards and mobile apps

Today, digital gift cards and mobile apps have revolutionized the way we give and receive gifts. With the rise of smartphones and mobile commerce, consumers can easily purchase and send gift cards digitally. Additionally, many retailers now offer virtual gift cards, which can be stored in mobile wallets or emailed directly to recipients. This modern twist on the traditional gift card has made them even more convenient and accessible in our digital age.

2010

The shift to digital gift cards.

With the increasing popularity of smartphones and online shopping, the demand for digital gift cards grew rapidly. In 2010, mobile gift card apps were introduced, allowing users to store and redeem their gift cards directly on their smartphones. This shift to digital gift cards offered convenience, reduced waste, and opened up new opportunities for personalized gifting experiences.