As the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, people across the globe unite in celebration to welcome the New Year. While the sentiment of joy and hope is universal, the ways in which people say “Happy New Year” are as diverse as the cultures themselves. Here are ten creative and culturally rich ways to share New Year’s greetings from around the world.
1. “Bonne Année!” – France
In France, wishing someone a “Bonne Année” (Good Year) is often accompanied by heartfelt kisses on both cheeks and a glass of champagne. The French also exchange cards or small gifts during the first weeks of January.
2. “Feliz Año Nuevo!” – Spain and Latin America
In Spanish-speaking countries, saying “Feliz Año Nuevo” is a vibrant affair, often paired with the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight—one for each month of the upcoming year—to bring good luck.
3. “Shana Tova!” – Jewish Communities
Though celebrated during Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish New Year), the greeting “Shana Tova” means “Good Year.” It’s typically shared with loved ones along with symbolic foods like apples dipped in honey to signify a sweet year ahead.
4. “Xin Nian Kuai Le!” (新年快樂) – China
During Chinese New Year, which follows the lunar calendar, people say “Xin Nian Kuai Le” to wish others happiness in the new year. The festivities often include red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money, symbolizing prosperity.
5. “Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” – Poland
Polish celebrations are grand, and the greeting “Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku” translates to “Happy New Year.” It’s customary to toast with vodka and enjoy traditional Polish dishes like bigos and pierogi.
6. “Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu!” (明けましておめでとうございます) – Japan
In Japan, the New Year’s greeting “Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu” is both formal and festive. It’s part of the tradition to send New Year’s postcards (nengajo) to friends and family, ensuring they arrive on January 1st.
7. “Frohes Neues Jahr!” – Germany
Germans say “Frohes Neues Jahr” while enjoying a feast that often includes lucky foods like pork and sauerkraut. The phrase is also shared after pouring lead (Bleigießen) into water to predict fortunes for the year.
8. “Snovym Godom!” (С Новым Годом) – Russia
In Russia, “Snovym Godom” is accompanied by grand celebrations featuring Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and Snegurochka (Snow Maiden), who bring gifts to children.
9. “Manigong Bagong Taon!” – Philippines
The Filipino phrase “Manigong Bagong Taon” wishes prosperity for the New Year. Filipinos celebrate with a midnight feast called Media Noche, including round fruits to symbolize wealth and abundance.
10. “Sawadee Pi Mai!” (สวัสดีปีใหม่) – Thailand
In Thailand, the traditional New Year or Songkran occurs in April. Saying “Sawadee Pi Mai” often coincides with water fights and rituals to wash away bad luck, making way for blessings.
11. “Saehae Bok Mani Badeuseyo!” (새해복 만이 받아주세요) – Korea
In Korea, the New Year’s greeting “Saehae Bok Mani Badeuseyo” means “May you receive lots of blessings in the new year.” It is often shared during Seollal, the Lunar New Year, which includes traditional food like tteokguk (rice cake soup) and honoring elders.
12. “Kul ‘Aam wa Antum Bi Khayr!” (كل عام وأنتم بخير) – Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia and other Arabic-speaking countries, the phrase “Kul ‘Aam wa Antum Bi Khayr” translates to “May you be well every year.” It’s a warm and formal way to extend New Year’s wishes, often associated with prayers for peace and prosperity.
Embrace the Diversity of New Year Greetings
Learning how to say “Happy New Year” in another language is more than just a phrase; it’s an opportunity to connect with different cultures and their traditions. This New Year, why not surprise your friends or family with one of these creative greetings? Celebrate diversity and bring a global touch to your celebrations!
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