How to Say "Merry Christmas Eve" in Italian

buona vigilia di Natale

The English phrase "merry Christmas eve" is translated into Italian as buona vigilia di Natale.

This phrase is a greeting used to wish someone a happy celebration on the day before Christmas.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase is composed of buona (good), vigilia (eve/vigil), di (of) and Natale (Christmas).

While English uses "Merry" (joyful/happy), Italian uses buona (good) for this specific holiday greeting.

The adjective buona is feminine to agree with the feminine noun vigilia.

In Italy, the vigilia is traditionally celebrated with a 'feast of the seven fishes', where meat is strictly avoided in favor of seafood dishes.
The word Natale comes from the Latin nātālis, meaning 'birthday'.
The word vigilia shares the same root as the English word 'vigil', referring to a period of staying awake to keep watch or pray.

Le auguro una Buona Vigilia di Natale piena di gioia e serenità, Signor Rossi.
I wish you a Merry Christmas Eve filled with joy and serenity, Mr. Rossi.
Buona Vigilia di Natale, cari amici! Che questa serata sia piena di allegria e affetto.
Merry Christmas Eve, dear friends! May this evening be filled with joy and love.
Buona Vigilia di Natale, amore mio! Passiamo una serata magica insieme.
Merry Christmas Eve, my love! Let's spend a magical evening together.
Buona vigilia di Natale a tutti!
Merry Christmas Eve to everyone!
Ti auguro una buona vigilia di Natale.
I wish you a merry Christmas Eve.
Buona vigilia di Natale, caro amico.
Merry Christmas Eve, dear friend.

Francesco and Sofia meet at a coffee shop on December 24th.

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