Happy New Year In French: How to Extend Warm Bonne Année Wishes in France

Anna Naumovych10 min
Created: Dec 15, 2023Last updated: Oct 14, 2024
Happy New Year In French

As the New Year draws near, people around the world are excited to exchange cheerful greetings. Whether you're part of a New Year's celebration in France, have friends who speak French, or are eager to broaden your language skills, learning how to say Happy New Year in French is both exciting and rewarding. Bonne Année will not only add a touch of elegance to your conversations but also allow you to respond warmly to the good wishes of your French acquaintances. Join us on this adventure at Promova, your language learning platform, as we explore the art of expressing good New Year wishes in French!

Basic New Year’s Greetings in French

In France, New Year's isn't confined to a single day; it unfolds as a joyous season filled with celebrations. The French New Year festivities commence on December 6th with the celebration of Saint Nicholas and extend until January 6th. This month-long celebration provides ample time for exchanging greetings and good wishes.

The peak of these joyous festivities culminates on New Year's Eve, known as "Le réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre," translating to "the waking of Saint Sylvester." This special evening, occurring on December 31st, is filled with excitement and anticipation as people come together to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. It's a time of joy, reflection, and the exchange of heartfelt greetings.

To fully immerse yourself in this cultural experience, let's master the art of expressing good wishes, starting with these essential French New Year's greetings:

  • Bonne année! – Happy New Year!
  • Bonnes fêtes de fin d’année! – Happy holidays!
  • Bonne santé! – Good health to you!
  • Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année! – Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
  • Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année de la part de… – Season’s greetings from…
  • Meilleurs Voeux! – A greeting that works all year round.
  • Vœux de Bonheur pour un Joyeux Noël – Wishes of happiness for a Merry Christmas
  • Je vous souhaite d’excellentes fêtes, et bonne année – I wish you happy holidays and a happy New Year.
  • Passez un Joyeux Noël en famille! – Have a Merry Christmas with your family!
  • Bonne année et bonne santé! – Happy New Year and good health!
  • Que l’année vous procure bonheur, santé et prospérité. – May the year bring you happiness, health and prosperity.
  • Bonnes Fêtes! – Happy holidays!
  • Joyeuses Fêtes! – Joyful holidays!
  • Vœux de Bonheur pour un Joyeux Noël. – Happy wishes for a merry Christmas.
  • Je vous souhaite d’excellentes fêtes, et bonne année. – I wish you an excellent holiday season and a happy New Year.
  • Passez un Joyeux Noël en famille. – Have a happy Christmas with your family.
  • Je vous envoie tous nos bisous pour la nouvelle année. – Sending you all our kisses for the New Year.

French Words Related To New Year 

Beyond New Year's greetings, expanding your vocabulary with words related to the entire season enhances your language-learning experience. Here are some noteworthy French words to learn:

  • Le réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre – New Year’s Eve
  • Le jour de l’an – New Year’s Day
  • La minuit – Midnight
  • Le premier de Janvier – January 1st
  • Une bonne résolution – New Year’s resolution
  • La fête – Party
  • Faire la fête – to party
  • Une soirée déguisée – costume party
  • Une soirée dansante – dancing party
  • Danser – To dance
  • Un bal populaire – street dance
  • Les ami(e)s – friends
  • Les feux d’artifice – fireworks
  • Le champagne – champagne
  • Un toast – a toast
  • Joyeux Noël! – Merry Christmas!
  • Je vous souhaite un joyeux Noël! – I wish you a merry Christmas!

Happy New Year's Wishes in French

Happy New Year Greetings for Your Boyfriend in French

As the clock strikes midnight and the new year unfolds, expressing your affection in French adds a touch of romance to the celebration. Begin your heartfelt wishes with endearing phrases that resonate with love and anticipation.

  • Mon amour, que cette nouvelle année soit remplie de bonheur et de moments magiques. - My love, may this New Year be filled with happiness and magical moments.
  • Joyeuse année, mon chéri! Que chaque jour qui passe renforce notre amour. - Happy New Year, my darling! May each passing day strengthen our love.
  • Je suis reconnaissante de t'avoir dans ma vie. Que cette année soit aussi spéciale que toi, mon cœur. - I'm grateful to have you in my life. May this year be as special as you are, my love.

Happy New Year Greetings for Your Girlfriend in French

Seal your New Year's wishes with a touch of charm and sweetness as you express your feelings in French, captivating your girlfriend's heart.

  • Ma chère, que cette année nouvelle te comble de bonheur et de réussite. Je t'aime! - My dear, may this New Year bring you happiness and success. I love you!
  • Joyeuse année, mon trésor! Que chaque jour soit une aventure dans notre histoire d'amour. - Happy New Year, my treasure! May each day be an adventure in our love story.
  • À la femme qui illumine ma vie, je te souhaite une année pleine d'éclat et de bonheur. Je t'aime éperdument. - To the woman who brightens my life, I wish you a year full of sparkle and joy. I love you madly.

Happy New Year Greetings for Your Girlfriend in French

Extend warm and festive wishes to your friends in French, creating bonds that strengthen with the turn of the year.

  • Bonne année, mes amis! Que cette année soit riche en moments joyeux et en amitié sincère. - Happy New Year, my friends! May this year be filled with joyful moments and sincere friendship.
  • Que la nouvelle année vous apporte le succès, la santé et beaucoup de fous rires. À notre amitié! - May the New Year bring you success, health, and lots of laughter. To our friendship!
  • En cette nouvelle année, je suis reconnaissant(e) d'avoir des amis aussi exceptionnels. Que notre amitié perdure toujours! - In this New Year, I am grateful for such exceptional friends. May our friendship endure forever!

Happy New Year Greetings for Your Colleagues in French

Forge professional connections and foster team spirit with New Year's greetings tailored for your colleagues in the workplace.

  • Bonne année à tous mes collègues formidables! Que cette année soit prospère et pleine de succès professionnels. - Happy New Year to all my fantastic colleagues! May this year be prosperous and full of professional success.
  • Que la nouvelle année nous apporte de nouveaux défis passionnants et renforce notre esprit d'équipe. Bonne année! - May the New Year bring us exciting challenges and strengthen our team spirit. Happy New Year!
  • En cette période de renouveau, je vous souhaite à tous des projets inspirants et une collaboration fructueuse. Bonne année! - In this time of renewal, I wish you all inspiring projects and fruitful collaboration. Happy New Year!

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French New Year Feast

As we immerse ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of New Year wishes and greetings in French, the anticipation for the upcoming festivities extends beyond warm words. Embarking on the celebration of New Year's Eve in France is not just a revelry of moments ticking away; it is a culinary journey that unfolds with un dîner de la Saint Sylvestre, a feast that elevates the occasion to a gastronomic spectacle. French New Year's Eve dinners, also known as Le Réveillon du Nouvel An, are marked by an extravagant spread that showcases the finest offerings of French cuisine. 

From the effervescence of Champagne to the briny indulgence of les huîtres (oysters), the velvety richness of le foie gras, and the delicate allure of smoked salmon, the dining experience is a tapestry of flavors. As the evening progresses, one can savor the succulence of turkey, goose, or Cornish hen, relish the tenderness of scallops, lobsters, and the distinct flavors of game meat. 

French chefs, known for their culinary prowess, spare no effort in curating a menu that encapsulates the essence of the season, ensuring that each bite is a celebration in itself. Join us in exploring the lexicon of French New Year's Eve cuisine, where words become a prelude to an unforgettable dining experience:

French New Year Drinks 

  • Champagne - Champagne
  • Boissons - Drinks
  • Eau - Water
  • Vin - Wine
  • Jus - Juice
  • Café - Coffee
  • Thé - Tea
  • Bière - Beer

French New Year Food

  • Foie gras - Foie gras
  • Dinde - Turkey
  • L'oie - Goose
  • Canard - Duck 
  • Viande - Meat
  • Boeuf - Beef
  • Porc - Pork
  • Poulet - Chicken
  • Poisson - Fish
  • Saumon fumé - Smoked salmon
  • Poule de Cornouailles - Cornish hen
  • Coquilles Saint-Jacques - Scallops
  • Huîtres - Oysters
  • Homard - Lobster
  • Croissant - Croissant
  • Soupe - Soup
  • Salade - Salad
  • Pâtes - Pasta
  • Frites - French fries
  • Purée - Mashed potatoes
  • Légumes - Vegetables
  • Entrée - Starter
  • Plat - Main dish
  • Dessert - Dessert
  • Plat du jour - Dish of the day

French New Year Food Desserts

  • Dessert - Dessert
  • Biscuit - Cookie
  • Bonbons - Candy
  • Chocolat - Chocolate
  • Crème brûlée - Vanilla custard topped off with a burnt sugar topping
  • Crème caramel - Flan
  • Fromage - Cheese
  • Fruits - Fruit
  • Gâteau - Cake
  • Glace - Ice cream
  • Mousse au chocolat - Chocolate mousse
  • Tarte - Pie

Countdown to Midnight: Learning Numbers in French

As you indulge in the exquisite flavors of the French New Year feast, let's not forget that the culinary spectacle is just one part of the grand celebration. The anticipation builds as the clock ticks down to midnight on New Year's Eve, and what better way to immerse yourself in the French celebration than by mastering the art of counting down in French?

  • Zéro - Zero
  • Un - One
  • Deux - Two
  • Trois - Three
  • Quatre - Four
  • Cinq - Five
  • Six - Six
  • Sept - Seven
  • Huit - Eight
  • Neuf - Nine
  • Dix - Ten
  • Onze - Eleven
  • Douze - Twelve

As the clock inches closer to midnight, impress your friends with your linguistic prowess by counting down aloud in French. Feel the thrill of each number bringing you closer to the moment of celebration. You can even add some flair by incorporating French expressions like "C'est parti!" (Here we go!) or "En avant!" (Forward!).

Practice your countdown in advance, and when the pivotal moment arrives, join the chorus of voices around the world, shouting "Dix, neuf, huit, sept, six, cinq, quatre, trois, deux, un… Bonne année!" Witnessing the burst of fireworks and the exchange of jubilant hugs will not only mark the beginning of the new year but also signify your linguistic triumph.

Learn French With Promova App

If the idea of mastering the French language intrigues you, dive into the world of language learning with the Promova app! Whether you're a total beginner (A1 level) or looking to polish your existing French skills, Promova offers a comprehensive platform for language enthusiasts.

Study on the go with our app (download Promova from the App Store or Play Store), allowing you to make the most of those precious 5-minute intervals – be it during a coffee break at work, commuting on public transport, or even before bedtime. With the full website also at your disposal, Promova ensures a flexible and accessible learning experience tailored to your schedule.

Promova covers all aspects of French language skills, including vocabulary, listening, reading, speaking, writing, and grammar. Our user-friendly interface and diverse learning materials make acquiring language proficiency an enjoyable and achievable journey.

Our blog section offers a wealth of resources to enrich your French learning experience further. Discover insights into language nuances through posts on French expressions adopted into English, like déjà vu, avant-garde, restaurant, and bon voyage. Learn polite phrases for social situations, like "De rien" ("You're welcome"), wishing someone a happy birthday ("Bon anniversaire!", or asking "Quelle heure est-il ?" ("What time is it?"). Express love by saying "Je t'aime" and master goodbyes with "Au revoir".

However, Promova isn't limited to French alone; we offer language learning services for EnglishGermanItalianSpanish, Portuguese, Ukrainian, KoreanArabic, and Chinese. Our diverse language offerings cater to a wide range of interests and learning preferences.

Conclusion 

Learning how to wish others a happy new year is a joyful way to connect cross-culturally. As we've seen, the French revel in an extensive season of celebration, complete with lavish meals, enthusiastic countdowns, and warm exchanges of Bonne Année! wishes. Whether you're gearing up to participate in festivities abroad, connecting with French-speaking friends, or simply expanding your linguistic skills, mastering these holiday greetings fosters goodwill and deepens bonds. Savor this seasonal delight by embracing French with Promova – your partner in language learning.

FAQ

When do the French New Year celebrations start?

The French festivities kick off on December 6th with Saint Nicholas Day and continue through January 6th.

What is New Year's Eve called in France?

It is called Le Réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre, meaning the waking up of Saint Sylvestre.

How do the French wish a Happy New Year?

French people commonly express New Year wishes with phrases like "Bonne année!" (Happy New Year) and "Meilleurs Voeux!" (Best wishes).

What does "Bonne Année" mean in French?

"Bonne Année" translates to "Happy New Year" in English. It is a common and warm greeting exchanged during the New Year celebrations in France. The phrase is used to convey good wishes and positive sentiments for a joyful, prosperous, and fulfilling new year ahead.

How do you say "Merry Christmas" in French?

To wish someone a Merry Christmas in French, you say "Joyeux Noël!" This expression is commonly used during the festive season to extend warm and cheerful Christmas wishes.

How do French people celebrate the New Year?

New Year celebrations in France extend from December 6th to January 6th, encompassing a joyful season filled with various festivities. The peak of these celebrations occurs on New Year's Eve, known as "Le réveillon de la Saint-Sylvestre," translating to "the waking of Saint Sylvester." This special evening, observed on December 31st, is marked by exuberant gatherings, festive meals, and the exchange of warm greetings. Families and friends come together to bid farewell to the old year and usher in the new one with a spirit of joy, reflection, and camaraderie. The celebrations often include elaborate dinners, parties, and the iconic countdown to midnight.

How do you say 'cheers' or make a New Year toast in French?

Making a New Year toast in French is a delightful tradition. To say 'cheers,' you can use the phrase "À votre santé!" which means 'To your health!' or simply exclaim "Santé!" The act of raising glasses, clinking them together, and expressing good wishes adds a festive touch to the celebrations, emphasizing the joyous spirit of welcoming the new year.

How long after January 1 should you wish someone Happy New Year in France?

While customs may vary, it's generally acceptable to offer New Year wishes throughout the month of January, extending the joyous spirit of the season.

Comments

PromovaDec 26th, 2023
In France, New Year's is not confined to a single day but extends from December 6th to January 6th, marked by festivities and joyful gatherings. The celebration encompasses the season, providing ample time for exchanging greetings and sharing good wishes. The extended period allows people to come together, celebrate, and wish each other well, fostering a sense of togetherness and community spirit.
Alex HarveyDec 26th, 2023
how do the French celebrate New Year's, and why is the celebration extended beyond a single day?