Holiday & Celebration Wishes in Dutch
From Christmas to birthdays, here's how to send the right wishes in Dutch — plus the unique Dutch celebrations (hello, Sinterklaas) you'll want to know about.
Celebrate in Dutch
Knowing the right festive phrase makes you part of the moment. Here are the wishes for every Dutch celebration.
Festive wishes
The essentials.
| Dutch | English |
|---|---|
| Vrolijk kerstfeest | Merry Christmas |
| Gelukkig nieuwjaar | Happy New Year |
| Fijne feestdagen | Happy holidays |
| Gefeliciteerd! | Congratulations / Happy birthday |
| Hartelijk gefeliciteerd met je verjaardag | Happy birthday (full) |
| Fijne vakantie | Have a good holiday/vacation |
Dutch celebration customs
A few things that surprise newcomers: on a birthday, the Dutch congratulate not just the birthday person but the whole family (‘Gefeliciteerd met je zus!’). The big December event isn’t only Christmas — it’s Sinterklaas (5 December), with gifts and poems. And on King’s Day (Koningsdag, 27 April) the whole country wears orange. Knowing these makes your wishes land naturally.
Celebrate and connect in Dutch
Dutch Daily teaches the phrases and culture that help you belong — all year round. Free to start.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
How do you say Merry Christmas in Dutch?
'Vrolijk kerstfeest' or 'Fijne kerst'. For the whole season, 'Fijne feestdagen' (happy holidays) covers Christmas and New Year together.
How do you say Happy New Year in Dutch?
'Gelukkig nieuwjaar'. Around New Year you'll also hear 'De beste wensen' (best wishes) and 'Gelukkig en gezond' (happy and healthy).
How do you say Happy Birthday in Dutch?
'Gefeliciteerd!' or the full 'Hartelijk gefeliciteerd met je verjaardag'. Note: the Dutch also congratulate the birthday person's family members.