A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Merry christmas" in Italian
The standard Italian greeting for Christmas, used from early December until Epiphany.
Buon Natale
BWON nah-TAH-lehneutral
Italian TTS · 0:01
Say this to anyone you're greeting during the Christmas season, from December 8th (Immacolata) until January 6th (Epifania). It's perfect for shopkeepers, friends, and family.
Alternatives
- AuguriA more general 'best wishes', good for any holiday or celebration.
- Felice NataleLess common, but understood; 'Buon Natale' is more idiomatic.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'Felice Christmas'
Mixes Italian and English; stick to one language for greetings.
Pronounce the 't' in Natale
Make sure to clearly pronounce the 't' sound, not a soft 'd'.
A small cultural note
While 'Buon Natale' is universal, some Italians might use 'Auguri' more broadly for any holiday period.
Frequently asked
When do Italians say Buon Natale?
Italians typically start saying 'Buon Natale' from the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th. The season extends through Epiphany on January 6th.
Is Buon Natale formal or informal?
'Buon Natale' is a neutral greeting, appropriate for both casual and more formal interactions. You don't need a different phrase for friends versus strangers.
What's the difference between Buon Natale and Auguri?
'Buon Natale' specifically means 'Merry Christmas'. 'Auguri' is a more general term for 'best wishes' and can be used for birthdays, holidays, or any celebratory occasion.
How do Italians wish Merry Christmas?
The most common way to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Italian is 'Buon Natale'.
Is it Felice Natale or Buon Natale?
Both 'Felice Natale' and 'Buon Natale' mean Merry Christmas, but 'Buon Natale' is much more commonly used.
What does 'buon natale a tutti' mean?
'Buon Natale a tutti' translates to 'Merry Christmas to everyone' in English.
How do you respond to buon Natale?
You can respond to 'Buon Natale' by saying 'Anche a te' (to you too) or simply repeating 'Buon Natale'.
