Learning the festive and holiday phrases of a new language can add a delightful touch to your interactions during special occasions. Here, we explore some essential Portuguese phrases that will help you navigate through celebrations and express holiday greetings like a native speaker.
Feliz Natal – Merry Christmas
Todos na sala disseram “Feliz Natal” quando os presentes foram distribuídos.
This phrase is used to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Portuguese-speaking countries. It is commonly used during the Christmas season.
Boas Festas – Happy Holidays
Ela enviou um cartão de Boas Festas para sua família no Brasil.
This phrase is a general holiday greeting used in Portuguese and can be used for various celebrations throughout the holiday season.
Ano Novo – New Year
Vamos celebrar o Ano Novo na praia este ano.
This term refers to the New Year celebration, which is widely celebrated in Portuguese-speaking countries with fireworks, parties, and special meals.
Feliz Ano Novo – Happy New Year
Quando o relógio bateu meia-noite, todos gritaram “Feliz Ano Novo!”
This is the standard New Year greeting in Portuguese. It is used to wish someone happiness and prosperity in the coming year.
Páscoa – Easter
A família se reúne todos os anos para celebrar a Páscoa.
Easter is a significant holiday in many Portuguese-speaking countries, celebrated with church services, festive meals, and, in Brazil, the famous Easter egg hunts.
Feliz Páscoa – Happy Easter
Feliz Páscoa! Espero que você encontre muitos ovos de chocolate.
This phrase is used to wish someone a Happy Easter, often accompanied by the giving of chocolate eggs and other sweets.
Carnaval – Carnival
Milhares de pessoas participam do Carnaval no Rio de Janeiro todos os anos.
Carnival is a festive season occurring before Lent, featuring parades, music, dancing, and costumes. It is particularly famous in Brazil.
Feliz Dia das Bruxas – Happy Halloween
As crianças saíram para pedir doces e desejaram a todos um Feliz Dia das Bruxas.
Although not traditionally celebrated in all Portuguese-speaking countries, Halloween has become more popular. This phrase is used to wish someone a Happy Halloween.
Dia de São Valentim – Valentine’s Day
Eles trocaram presentes no Dia de São Valentim.
Valentine’s Day, while more commonly associated with romantic love, is also a day to show affection to friends and family in some Portuguese cultures.
Feliz Dia de São Valentim – Happy Valentine’s Day
Feliz Dia de São Valentim! Aqui está um pequeno presente para você.
This phrase is used on Valentine’s Day to express affection or love, commonly accompanied by gifts such as flowers or chocolates.
Feliz Dia das Mães – Happy Mother’s Day
Feliz Dia das Mães! Hoje é seu dia de relaxar e aproveitar.
This greeting is used to honor mothers and mother figures on Mother’s Day. It is a day to celebrate and thank them for their contributions.
Feliz Dia dos Pais – Happy Father’s Day
Feliz Dia dos Pais! Obrigado por tudo que você faz.
Similar to Mother’s Day, Father’s Day is a celebration dedicated to fathers and father figures, where they are shown appreciation and love.
Feliz Dia de Ação de Graças – Happy Thanksgiving
Feliz Dia de Ação de Graças! Vamos aproveitar esta refeição juntos.
Thanksgiving is not traditionally celebrated in Portuguese-speaking countries, but where it is observed, this phrase is used.
Dia de Reis – Day of Kings (Epiphany)
No Dia de Reis, as crianças esperam receber pequenos presentes em seus sapatos.
Celebrated on January 6th, this holiday commemorates the visit of the Magi to baby Jesus. Traditions include singing carols and exchanging gifts.
Feliz Dia de Reis – Happy Day of Kings
Feliz Dia de Reis! Espero que você desfrute deste dia com amor e alegria.
This greeting is used on the Day of Kings to spread joy and celebrate the holiday spirit.
Understanding and using these phrases can help you connect more deeply with Portuguese-speaking friends and communities during festive and holiday seasons. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, New Year, or any other special day, these expressions will enrich your experience and show your appreciation for the culture.
