Feliz Navidad
everyday, Panama
In Panama people say Feliz Navidad, the same greeting used across the Spanish-speaking world. There is no separate Panamanian wording, and Felices fiestas covers the whole holiday season. It is also called Feliz Nochebuena.
Meaning: Christmas greeting (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | Note |
|---|---|
| Feliz Navidad | everyday, Panama |
| Felices fiestas | neutral, holiday season |
| Feliz Nochebuena | December 24 |
Say Feliz Navidad to family, neighbors and coworkers from early December on. On the evening of December 24 people switch to Feliz Nochebuena.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
With someone you address as usted, a fuller wish such as Le deseo una feliz Navidad sounds polite. With friends the short form is enough.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The wording does not change in Panama, so you can use the standard greeting with confidence.
Did you know?
- Navidad comes from the Latin word for birth, and Nochebuena means literally "good night".
Examples in context
- ¡Feliz Navidad a toda la familia!Merry Christmas to the whole family!
- Les deseo unas felices fiestas.I wish you a happy holiday season.
- Feliz Nochebuena, abuela.Merry Christmas Eve, grandma.
Example conversation
Carlos greets his neighbor Doña Elena in Panama City on the morning of December 24.
- CarlosBuenos días, doña Elena. ¡Feliz Nochebuena!Good morning, Doña Elena. Merry Christmas Eve!
- Elena¡Feliz Navidad, Carlos! ¿Cenan en familia?Merry Christmas, Carlos! Are you having dinner as a family?
- CarlosSí, con todos mis tíos.Yes, with all my aunts and uncles.
