Feliz Carnaval!
standard, Brazil
In Brazil people wish each other Feliz Carnaval! or Bom Carnaval! A lighter, party-style wish is Boa folia!
Meaning: greeting for the Carnival holiday (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Portuguese | Note |
|---|---|
| Feliz Carnaval! | standard, Brazil |
| Boa folia! | casual |
| Bom Carnaval! | everyday, Brazil |
You say it in the days before Carnival, by message or in person, and to people who are traveling or heading to a street party. The word Carnaval is spelled with a capital in many greetings.
Which one should you use?
Folia means revelry or merrymaking, so Boa folia wishes someone a good time at the party.
When do people say it?
Carnival happens in the days before Ash Wednesday. Rio de Janeiro is known for its samba school parades, and Salvador, Recife and Olinda have large street celebrations.
Did you know?
- In Brazilian Portuguese a bloco is a group that parades through the streets during Carnival, often following a band on a truck.
Examples in context
- Feliz Carnaval para você e sua família!Happy Carnival to you and your family!
- Bom Carnaval, divirta-se!Have a good Carnival, have fun!
- Boa folia, pessoal!Have fun, everyone!
Example conversation
Dona Rita and her neighbor Seu Álvaro talk on the sidewalk in Olinda the day before Carnival.
- Dona RitaSeu Álvaro, feliz Carnaval!Mr. Álvaro, happy Carnival!
- Seu ÁlvaroFeliz Carnaval, Dona Rita! Vai sair no bloco?Happy Carnival, Dona Rita! Are you going to the street party?
- Dona RitaVou, sim. Boa folia para o senhor!Yes I am. Have a good time, sir!
