How To Say Happy New Year In France

Bonjour, 2023! Let's Gallic-ize Your New Year

Ever wondered how the French bid adieu to the old and bonjour to the new? It's not just 'Bonne Année', my friend. Oh, no. There's a whole baguette full of traditions and phrases that make saying 'Happy New Year' in France a delightful experience.

Bonne Année: The Basics

Let's start with the obvious. The French say 'Happy New Year' as 'Bonne Année'. It's pronounced like 'bone-nay'. Easy, right? But wait, there's more.

You might hear 'Bonne et Heureuse Année'. 'Heureuse' means 'happy', so it's like saying 'Happy and Happy New Year'. Why not? The more happiness, the better!

La Saint-Sylvestre: The French New Year's Eve

In France, New Year's Eve is called 'La Saint-Sylvestre'. It's named after Pope Sylvester I, who was the Pope during the reign of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. Talk about a historic party!

On this night, families and friends gather for a feast, usually consisting of foie gras, oysters, and champagne. Lots and lots of champagne.

Le Réveillon: The New Year's Eve Feast

Now, here's where it gets interesting. The New Year's Eve feast is called 'Le Réveillon'. It's a late dinner, often starting around 9 pm and lasting well into the night. Why so late? Well, because the French like to make an entrance, that's why!

After dinner, it's time for the countdown. At midnight, everyone shouts 'Bonne Année' and exchanges kisses - on both cheeks, of course. It's like a national lip-lock!

Typical New Year's Greetings in French

Les Chocolats: The New Year's Day Tradition

On New Year's Day, it's tradition to give 'les chocolats' - boxes of chocolates, that is. It's like a sweet start to the year. Who wouldn't want that?

And here's a fun fact: The French also believe that the first person to enter your home in the New Year brings good luck. So, choose wisely. Maybe it's best to leave the key under the mat for a lucky neighbor!

Les Résolutions: The French Way

Now, about those New Year's resolutions. The French call them 'les résolutions'. They're not big on making grand promises they can't keep. Instead, they focus on simple, achievable goals. Like, maybe, learning a few more French phrases. Like, maybe, 'Je suis désolé, je ne parle pas français' - 'I'm sorry, I don't speak French'. You know, just in case you mess up.

But hey, no pressure. After all, it's a new year. A new start. A new chance to say 'Happy New Year' in French. So, go on. Give it a try. 'Bonne Année'!