Say it in Spanish: Festive Latino Expressions to Brighten the Holiday Season

The holiday season is a great opportunity to bring some extra warmth and cheer into your conversations. Whether you’re catching up with your family, chatting with friends, or just sending out festive messages, adding a sprinkle of Spanish can make it even more fun. We put together a list with some classic and modern Spanish words and phrases that will add a little sparkle to this special time of year.

Classic Christmas Phrases

When it comes to Christmas, Spanish offers no shortage of sweet and joyous expressions. Here are a few you might hear—or use—during the season:

Feliz Navidad – Merry Christmas. A classic that everyone knows and loves.
La Nochebuena – Christmas Eve. It’s often a big deal in Latin America, with family dinners, music, and maybe a gift exchange.
Los villancicos – Christmas carols. Whether you’re singing or listening, they set the holiday mood.
El belén – Nativity scene. These can be small table decorations or elaborate setups in public squares.
Papá Noel – Santa Claus. Depending on where you are, he might also be called El Viejito Pascuero or San Nicolás.

New Year’s Wishes in Spanish

The New Year brings its own set of traditions and greetings. Some are universal, while others have a unique Latin flavor.

Feliz Año Nuevo – Happy New Year. Simple, cheerful, and perfect for any conversation.
Brindo por… – I toast to… Use this when raising a glass with loved ones. For example: Brindo por la familia (I toast to family).
Las doce uvas – The twelve grapes. In Spain and many Latin American countries, eating twelve grapes at midnight is a good-luck tradition.
¡Salud! – Cheers! A classic for toasting at any celebration.

Related: What Does “Felices Fiestas” Mean?

Latino Phrases to Spread the Joy

Want to keep things casual and fun? Check out these expressions to spread joy in Spanish:

• ¡Felices Fiestas! – Happy Holidays! This phrase covers all the festivities in December and January.
• ¿Ya llegaron los regalos? – Are the presents here yet? A playful way to inquire about gifts.
• ¡Qué lindo todo! – Everything looks wonderful! Use this to compliment the decorations or food.
• Espero que lo pases genial. – Hope you have an amazing time. Perfect for both friends and family.
• Nos vemos en el próximo año. – See you next year! A cheerful way to wrap up the season.
• Espero que disfrutes estas fiestas. – I hope you enjoy the holidays.
• Que tengas unas fiestas llenas de alegría. – Wishing you holidays full of joy.
• Que la paz y la felicidad estén contigo y tu familia. – May peace and happiness be with you and your family.
• Te mando un abrazo muy fuerte. – Sending you a big hug.
• Espero que el próximo año esté lleno de cosas buenas para ti. – I hope the coming year is full of good things for you.
• ¡Felicidades en estas fiestas! – Congratulations on these holidays! (Can be used as a general joyful phrase.)
• ¡Qué alegría poder celebrar juntos! – How wonderful it is to celebrate together!
• Brindemos por la amistad y el amor. – Let’s toast to friendship and love.
• ¡Por un año lleno de éxitos! – To a year full of success!
• ¡Lo logramos este año, y vamos por más el próximo! – We made it this year, and let’s aim for more next year!
• ¿Qué tal si cantamos un villancico? – How about we sing a Christmas carol?
• ¡Que nunca falte la música ni la risa! – May we never lack music or laughter!
• ¡A disfrutar de las luces y los momentos especiales! – Let’s enjoy the lights and special moments!
• ¿Quién quiere un pedacito de turrón? – Who wants a piece of nougat?
• ¡Que sigan los abrazos y las sonrisas! – May the hugs and smiles continue!
• Lo mejor de las fiestas es estar contigo. – The best part of the holidays is being with you.
• Me alegra mucho poder pasar este tiempo con ustedes. – I’m so happy to spend this time with you all.
• La familia es el mejor regalo de todos. – Family is the best gift of all.
• Gracias por hacer que estas fiestas sean especiales. – Thank you for making these holidays special.
• Que sigamos celebrando juntos por muchos años más. – May we keep celebrating together for many more years.