A guide to saying it like a local
How to Say "Merry christmas" in Spanish
Say 'Feliz Navidad' to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Spanish. A warm greeting for the holiday season.
Feliz Navidad
feh-LEES nah-vee-DAHDneutral
Spanish TTS · 0:01
Use this phrase when greeting people during the Christmas season, from late November through December. It's perfect for friends, family, and even shopkeepers.
Alternatives
- Felices FiestasUse this to include New Year's and other holidays.
- Feliz Año NuevoThis specifically means 'Happy New Year'.
Ways to get it wrong
Don't say 'Feliz Christo'
'Navidad' is the Spanish word for Christmas, not 'Christo'.
Pronounce the 'v'
Spanish 'v' sounds like a soft 'b'; try to make it light and quick.
A small cultural note
While 'Feliz Navidad' is universally understood, some regions might use local greetings or add specific wishes for the New Year.
Frequently asked
When do I say Feliz Navidad?
You can start saying 'Feliz Navidad' anytime after Thanksgiving in the US, or as soon as December begins. It's used throughout the Christmas season.
Is Feliz Navidad only for Christmas?
Primarily, yes, it's a Christmas greeting. For a broader holiday wish covering Christmas and New Year's, 'Felices Fiestas' is a good option.
How do I pronounce Navidad?
It's pronounced nah-vee-DAHD. The 'v' is soft, almost like a 'b', and the stress is on the last syllable.
How do you wish someone a merry Christmas in Spanish?
The most common way to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Spanish is 'Feliz Navidad'.
How do Mexicans say 'merry Christmas'?
Mexicans say 'Feliz Navidad' for Merry Christmas, just like in most other Spanish-speaking countries.
How do you respond to 'Feliz Navidad'?
You can respond with 'Feliz Navidad' back, or you can say 'Igualmente' which means 'Likewise'.
What is 'Merry Christmas and Happy New Year' in Spanish?
You can say 'Feliz Navidad y Próspero Año Nuevo'.
