How people say “Happy New Year” in 15 different countries

Welcoming the New Year is a tradition celebrated globally, and one simple phrase, “Happy New Year”can unite people across cultures. While each country carries its own unique customs and festivities, knowing how to say “Happy New Year” in various languages adds a personal and thoughtful touch to your greetings. From Europe to Asia and the Americas, people express joy, hope, and prosperity in different ways. Whether traveling, talking with international friends, or joining in multicultural festivities, mastering these phrases is a fun and meaningful way to share New Year cheer worldwide.


Here’s how you can say “Happy New Year” in 15 languages from different corners of the globe.

Hindi – नया साल मुबारक हो (Naya Saal Mubarak Ho)

In India, “नया साल मुबारक हो (Naya Saal Mubarak Ho)” is largely used along with resolutions and family celebrations, offering good wishes to close ones.

English – Happy New Year

English is the most widely spoken language in countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia. Saying “Happy New Year” in English is a classic and universally known form of wishing.

French – Bonne année

A popular phrase in France, Belgium, and parts of Africa, “Bonne année” which means “Good Year.” It is often complemented with hugs or handshakes during New Year celebrations.

German – Frohes neues Jahr

In Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, “Frohes neues Jahr” is commonly shared among companions and family, often complemented by festive gatherings and fireworks.

Italian – Buon Anno

Italians cite “Buon Anno” while cheerful traditional holiday meals and enjoying with family at midnight. This term is a staple of Italian New Year customs.

Spanish – Feliz Año Nuevo

Used in Spain, Mexico, and different Latin American countries, “Feliz Año Nuevo” is a joyful and heartfelt way to greet someone's happiness in the coming year.

Portuguese – Feliz Ano Novo

Widely said in Portugal and Brazil, “Feliz Ano Novo” is often shared during grand celebrations, fireworks, and beach gatherings. The phrase carries greetings of happiness and prosperity.

Russian – С Новым годом (S Novym Godom)

New Year is one of the most significant holidays in Russia. Wishing “С Новым годом” (S Novym Godom) is traditional while enjoying family, feasts, and gifts.

Arabic – سنة جديدة سعيدة (Sanah Jadidah Sa‘idah)

It is common across Arabic-speaking nations, “سنة جديدة سعيدة (Sanah Jadidah Sa‘idah)” is a warm wish exchanged to usher in a year that flourished with happiness.

Japanese – 明けましておめでとうございます (Akemashite Omedetō Gozaimasu)

This traditional Japanese wish is both polite and formal. Saying “明けましておめでとうございます (Akemashite Omedetō Gozaimasu)” signifies respect and good wishes for the coming year.

Chinese (Mandarin) – 新年快乐 (Xīn Nián Kuài Lè)

Used in both the Gregorian and Lunar New Year, “新年快乐 (Xīn Nián Kuài Lè)” which means “Happy New Year” and is said in greetings, cards, and texts.

Korean – 새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae Bok Mani Badeuseyo)

“새해 복 많이 받으세요 (Saehae Bok Mani Badeuseyo)” which means to “Receive lots of luck in the New Year,” signalling it as a meaningful and famous expression in Korea.

Dutch – Gelukkig Nieuwjaar

In the Netherlands and parts of Belgium, people say “Gelukkig Nieuwjaar” as they enjoy the new year with parties, fireworks, and champagne.

Turkish – Mutlu Yıllar

Turkish speakers cite “Mutlu Yıllar” as a friendly and warm greetings for a joyful and successful year ahead.

Thai – สวัสดีปีใหม่ (Sawasdee Pi Mai)

In Thailand, people wish each other with “สวัสดีปีใหม่ (Sawasdee Pi Mai)” to welcome the year positively and greet joy and prosperity.

FAQs:

Q1. Why should I learn New Year greetings in other languages?
Learning greetings signifies cultural awareness and helps connect with people from various countries. It adds a personal touch to your greetings.

Q2. Which languages are most commonly used for New Year greetings?
English, Spanish, and French are widely spoken internationally. Other recognized languages are Hindi, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.