How to Say “Merry Christmas” in Lakota

By Colin Robert • Updated October 3, 2026

Waníkiya tȟuŋpí aŋpétu wašté

Waníkiya tȟuŋpí aŋpétu wašté is the Lakota way to say merry Christmas.

This phrase is used to express good wishes during the Christmas season.

Meaning: good wishes at Christmas time (phrase)

Did you know?

The word Waníkiya is a loanword adapted from the English 'Christmas', reflecting the historical influence of missionaries and settlers on the language.
The word aŋpétu for 'day' is actually a compound of the words for 'dawn' and 'to exist'. It literally translates to a concept of 'dawn appearing'.
In Lakota culture, the concept of 'good' in wašté often encompasses not just a positive quality, but a sense of harmony and rightness with the world.

Example conversation

Joyce and Darrell greet each other at a holiday gathering.

Joyce

Waníkiya tȟuŋpí aŋpétu wašté, Darrell!
Merry Christmas, Darrell!
Darrell

Waníkiya tȟuŋpí aŋpétu wašté, Joyce!
Merry Christmas, Joyce!
Joyce

Tȟówašniyáya wašté!
Have a good time!
Darrell

Yaunyačha!
Thank you!

Sources

Word origins: Wiktionary entries aŋpétu, CC BY-SA 4.0.

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About The Author

Colin Robert

Hello! I'm Colin, a language enthusiast. When I'm not helping others say "Taŋyáŋ yahípi" (All My Relations) in Lakota, or guiding them on saying "Ičúŋčiyapi" (My Name Is), I’m probably exploring the untouched landscapes, or daydreaming about "Wičhíyena" (Eagles) and "Oȟčéthi Šakówiŋ" (Mountain). My writings aim to bridge the gap between cultures while appreciating the beauty of indigenous languages. My adventurous spirit is as vast as "Maȟpíya" (Sky). Let’s savour this beautiful language journey together!

Colin RobertHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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