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Want to impress your Polish friends or family this holiday season? Or perhaps you’re traveling to Poland and want to spread some festive cheer? Learning how to say “Merry Christmas” in Polish is a wonderful way to connect with Polish culture and show your appreciation for their traditions. While English speakers exchange greetings of “Merry Christmas,” the Polish equivalent carries a slightly different nuance and charm. Moreover, understanding the cultural context behind the greeting will enrich your experience and deepen your connection with Polish speakers. So, let’s delve into the enchanting world of Polish Christmas greetings and discover how to wish someone a truly joyous holiday season in their native tongue.
The most common way to say “Merry Christmas” in Polish is “**Wesołych Świąt**” (pronounced ve-SO-wikh SHVEE-ont). This phrase literally translates to “Merry Holidays” and encompasses the entire Christmas season, not just Christmas Day itself. Furthermore, you might also hear “**Boże Narodzenie**” (BO-zhe Na-ro-DZE-nye), which translates to “God’s Birth” and specifically refers to Christmas Day. While less common as a standalone greeting, it’s often used in conjunction with “Wesołych Świąt,” creating the longer, more formal greeting “Wesołych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia.” Additionally, you may encounter regional variations or more informal greetings, but “Wesołych Świąt” is universally understood and appreciated. Consequently, learning this phrase is your passport to spreading Christmas cheer throughout Poland. Don’t be afraid to try it out; Poles are generally very welcoming and appreciative of the effort to speak their language.
Beyond the standard greetings, there are other ways to express festive wishes in Polish. For example, you can wish someone a “Happy New Year” by saying “**Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku**” (shcheng-shlee-VE-go NO-ve-go RO-koo). Likewise, you can combine both greetings to say “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year” with “**Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku**.” These longer greetings are especially suitable for formal settings or written correspondence. However, even in casual conversations, adding a simple “**i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku**” after “Wesołych Świąt” can add a touch of warmth and completeness to your holiday wishes. Ultimately, the most important thing is to express your good intentions with sincerity. Learning even a few basic Polish phrases demonstrates respect for the culture and will undoubtedly be met with a smile.
The Most Common Polish Christmas Greeting: “Wesołych Świąt”
If you’re looking to spread some holiday cheer to your Polish friends or family, the most common and versatile way to wish them a Merry Christmas is with the phrase “Wesołych Świąt” (pronounced ve-SO-wikh SHFYONT). This translates literally to “Merry Holidays” but is widely understood and accepted as the standard Polish Christmas greeting.
Breaking it down a bit, “Wesołych” is the adjective meaning “merry” or “cheerful,” while “Świąt” is the genitive plural form of “święto,” which means “holiday” or “feast.” So you’re essentially saying “Merry Holidays.” The beauty of this phrase is its inclusivity; it encompasses the entire Christmas season, from Christmas Eve to Christmas Day and even extends to the period leading up to New Year’s. It’s a safe bet for any festive occasion during this time.
The pronunciation can be a little tricky for non-Polish speakers. The “ł” in “Wesołych” sounds like the English “w,” so it’s almost like saying “Vesowikh.” The “ś” in “Świąt” is a sound that doesn’t really exist in English. It’s similar to the “sh” in “ship,” but with a slightly softer, almost whispered quality. The “ą” is a nasal vowel, somewhat akin to the “on” in “French” pronounced with a nasal twang. And the “t” at the end is pronounced clearly.
Don’t worry too much about getting the pronunciation perfect. Poles appreciate the effort, and even a slightly imperfect “Wesołych Świąt” will be warmly received. You can find audio pronunciations online if you’d like to practice. The key is to try, and your Polish friends will be delighted that you’re making the effort to connect with them in their language.
Here’s a quick pronunciation guide in table form:
| Word | Pronunciation (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Wesołych | ve-SO-wikh |
| Świąt | SHFYONT |
| Wesołych Świąt | ve-SO-wikh SHFYONT |
So, go ahead and impress your Polish friends this Christmas with a heartfelt “Wesołych Świąt!” They’ll appreciate the gesture, and you’ll be spreading some festive cheer in a truly meaningful way.
Adding a Little Extra: Extending Your Wishes
While “Wesołych Świąt” is perfect on its own, you can always add a little something extra. A common addition is “i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku,” which means “and a Happy New Year.” This is a great way to extend your well wishes beyond Christmas and into the New Year. Together, the full phrase becomes “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku” (pronounced ve-SO-wikh SHFYONT ee shcheng-shlee-VEH-go no-VEH-go RO-koo). Don’t be intimidated by the length; break it down into smaller chunks, and you’ll get the hang of it.
Other Festive Greetings
Beyond the standard “Wesołych Świąt,” there are a few other Polish Christmas greetings you might encounter. For a more religious greeting, you can say “Błogosławionych Świąt” (bwo-go-swa-VYOH-nih SHFYONT), which means “Blessed Christmas.” This is a lovely sentiment, especially if you know the person you’re greeting is religious. You might also hear “Zdrowych i spokojnych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia” (zdroh-vih ee spo-KOYN-nih SHFYONT bo-ZHEH-go na-ro-DZEN-ya) - a longer phrase wishing someone a “Healthy and Peaceful Christmas.”
Breaking Down “Wesołych Świąt”: Understanding the Meaning
So, you want to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Polish? The most common way to do this is by saying “Wesołych Świąt” (pronounced ve-SO-wikh shFYONT). It’s a warm and heartfelt greeting that captures the festive spirit perfectly. Let’s break down this phrase to understand its deeper meaning and appreciate the nuances of the Polish language.
Deconstructing the Phrase
“Wesołych” comes from the word “wesoły,” which means “merry” or “cheerful.” It carries a sense of joy, happiness, and festive cheer, much like the English word “merry.” Think of lively celebrations, twinkling lights, and the general feeling of warmth and happiness that surrounds Christmas.
“Świąt” and its Significance
“Świąt” is the genitive plural form of the word “święto,” which translates to “holiday” or “feast.” The genitive case indicates possession, so literally, “Świąt” means “of the holidays.” This is where it gets interesting. In Polish, Christmas isn’t celebrated as just one day, but as a period of festivities. “Wesołych Świąt,” therefore, encompasses not just Christmas Day itself but also the surrounding holidays, including Christmas Eve (Wigilia) and the following days of celebration. It acknowledges the extended period of joy and togetherness that characterizes the Christmas season in Polish culture. Think of it as wishing someone well for the entire holiday period, encompassing the build-up, the main event, and the lingering festive atmosphere. This inclusive nature adds a layer of warmth and tradition to the greeting, emphasizing the importance of family, shared meals, and time-honored customs. The use of the plural form acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the celebration, from the religious significance to the cultural traditions and family gatherings. It’s a way of expressing good wishes for all aspects of the Christmas season, embracing the full spectrum of joy, peace, and togetherness that this special time of year represents.
To help you visualize the breakdown, here’s a handy table:
| Polish Word | English Translation | Meaning/Context |
|---|---|---|
| Wesołych | Merry/Cheerful | Expresses joy and festive cheer |
| Świąt | Of the Holidays (plural) | Refers to the Christmas period, not just one day |
Adding a Personal Touch: Extending the Greeting
While “Wesołych Świąt” is the most common way to wish someone a Merry Christmas in Polish, you can definitely add a personal touch to make your greeting even warmer and more meaningful, especially if you’re speaking to close friends, family, or colleagues. Here are some ways to extend the basic greeting:
Wishing a Happy New Year Too
Just like in English, it’s common to combine Christmas and New Year wishes in one greeting. In Polish, you can say “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” This translates to “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!” It’s a smooth and natural way to extend your well wishes throughout the holiday season.
Adding Specificity to Your Wishes
You can tailor your greeting to the specific person or situation. For example, you could wish someone a Merry Christmas filled with joy, peace, or good health. Here are a few options:
- Wesołych Świąt pełnych radości! (Merry Christmas filled with joy!)
- Wesołych Świąt i dużo zdrowia! (Merry Christmas and lots of health!)
- Spokojnych Świąt! (Peaceful Christmas!) - This is a nice option for expressing a wish for a calm and relaxing holiday.
You can also combine these phrases, such as “Wesołych Świąt pełnych radości i zdrowia!” (Merry Christmas filled with joy and health!).
Expressing Warmth and Affection
Beyond the standard phrases, expressing warmth and affection can resonate deeply, especially with close friends and family. Consider incorporating phrases that highlight togetherness, love, and shared experiences. For example, you could say something like “Życzę Wam wesołych Świąt spędzonych w gronie najbliższych” (I wish you a Merry Christmas spent with your loved ones). This shows you care about their relationships and value their time together during the holidays.
If you’re feeling particularly affectionate, you could say something like “Ślę Wam najserdeczniejsze życzenia świąteczne” (I send you my warmest Christmas wishes). This phrase carries a heartfelt tone and emphasizes the sincerity of your greeting.
You can also personalize your wishes further by referencing shared traditions or memories. For example, if you and your friends or family have a special holiday activity you enjoy together, you could say “Wesołych Świąt! Nie mogę się doczekać [shared activity], tak jak co roku!” (Merry Christmas! I can’t wait for [shared activity], just like every year!). This shows you cherish those traditions and strengthens your bond with them.
| Polish Phrase | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Wesołych Świąt spędzonych w gronie najbliższych | Merry Christmas spent with your loved ones |
| Ślę Wam najserdeczniejsze życzenia świąteczne | I send you my warmest Christmas wishes |
| Nie mogę się doczekać [shared activity], tak jak co roku! | I can’t wait for [shared activity], just like every year! |
Remember, expressing warmth and affection goes beyond just using the right words; it’s about conveying genuine care and connection. By adding a personal touch to your “Wesołych Świąt”, you create a moment of true holiday spirit.
Wishing a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year: “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku”
The most common way to wish someone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in Polish is by saying “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku.” This phrase covers all the bases and is suitable for any situation, from casual conversations to formal greetings.
Breaking Down the Phrase
“Wesołych Świąt” translates directly to “Merry Christmas.” “Wesołych” means “merry” or “joyful,” while “Świąt” means “holidays” or “feasts.” Since Christmas is such a significant holiday in Poland, “Świąt” is understood to refer to Christmas in this context. The “-ych” ending on “Wesołych” makes the word plural, acknowledging the multiple days of Christmas celebrations.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronouncing “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku” might seem daunting at first, but it’s easier than it looks. Let’s break it down:
| Phrase | Pronunciation (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Wesołych Świąt | Veh-so-wikh Shvyont |
| i | ee |
| Szczęśliwego | Shcheng-shlee-veh-go |
| Nowego Roku | No-veh-go Roh-koo |
Remember that these are just approximations. Listening to a native speaker is the best way to perfect your pronunciation. Many online resources offer audio pronunciations of these phrases.
Using the Phrase in Different Contexts
The beauty of “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku” is its versatility. You can use it with family, friends, colleagues, or even strangers. Here are a few scenarios:
With Family and Close Friends
In informal settings, you can shorten the phrase to just “Wesołych Świąt,” especially as Christmas approaches. You might also add a more personal touch, such as “Kochani, Wesołych Świąt!” (Beloved ones, Merry Christmas!). This adds a layer of warmth and affection. As New Year’s gets closer, you can switch to “Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” (Happy New Year!).
In Formal Settings
When greeting colleagues, business partners, or acquaintances, using the full phrase “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku” is appropriate. This shows respect and maintains a professional tone while still conveying your holiday wishes. You can also add “Wszystkiego najlepszego z okazji Świąt Bożego Narodzenia i Nowego Roku!” which translates to “All the best on the occasion of Christmas and New Year!” for a more formal and elaborate greeting. This is particularly suitable for written correspondence like emails or holiday cards.
Adding a Personal Touch
You can personalize your greetings by adding a simple phrase like “Życzę Wam…” (I wish you…) followed by something specific, for example: “Życzę Wam zdrowych i spokojnych Świąt” (I wish you healthy and peaceful holidays). This adds a thoughtful touch to your well wishes.
Responding to Holiday Greetings
If someone wishes you “Wesołych Świąt,” you can reciprocate with the same phrase or simply say “Wzajemnie!” (Likewise!) or “Tobie również!” (To you as well!). These are common and polite responses that acknowledge the well wishes.
Informal Christmas Greetings for Friends and Family
Christmas in Poland is a truly magical time, filled with traditions, delicious food, and heartwarming gatherings. If you’re lucky enough to have Polish friends or family, or if you’re simply planning a trip to Poland during the festive season, knowing how to extend your Christmas wishes in Polish will definitely add a touch of warmth and connection to your interactions. This section focuses on informal ways to wish your loved ones a Merry Christmas in Polish.
Wesołych Świąt!
The most common and versatile informal Christmas greeting in Polish is “Wesołych Świąt!” Pronounced roughly as “veh-SO-wikh SHVYONT,” this phrase translates directly to “Merry Holidays!” While it encompasses all the holidays surrounding Christmas, it’s perfectly acceptable to use it as a standalone greeting.
Wesolych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia!
For a more specific Christmas greeting, you can say “Wesołych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia!” This translates to “Merry Christmas!” The pronunciation is “veh-SO-wikh SHVYONT Bo-ZHE-go Na-ro-DZEN-ya.” While longer, it explicitly references Christmas and adds a touch of formality while still being suitable for casual settings.
Other Informal Greetings
Beyond the classic greetings, there are several other warm and informal ways to wish your Polish friends and family a Merry Christmas. You could try:
| Greeting | Pronunciation (Approximate) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Zdrowych i wesołych świąt! | zdro-vikh ee veh-SO-wikh SHVYONT | Healthy and merry holidays! |
| Radosnych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia! | ra-DOS-nikh SHVYONT Bo-ZHE-go Na-ro-DZEN-ya | Joyful Christmas! |
| Spokojnych Świąt! | spo-KOY-nikh SHVYONT | Peaceful holidays! |
Adding a Personal Touch
To make your greetings even more special, consider adding a personal touch. For example, you could say “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” (veh-SO-wikh SHVYONT ee shcheng-shlee-VEH-go no-VEH-go RO-koo) which means “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!” This is a lovely way to extend your well wishes beyond the immediate holiday season.
You could also incorporate a personal message, such as “Wesołych Świąt! Mam nadzieję, że spędzisz je w gronie najbliższych.” This translates to “Merry Christmas! I hope you spend it with your loved ones.” Sharing such sentiments adds depth to your greeting and shows you genuinely care.
Don’t be afraid to try these phrases out loud! While Polish pronunciation can seem daunting at first, your effort will be appreciated. Plus, embracing a few key phrases can significantly enrich your experience of Polish Christmas traditions. So, go ahead and impress your Polish friends and family with your newfound language skills. They’ll be delighted to hear you wish them a Merry Christmas in their native tongue!
Responding to “Wesołych Świąt”: What to Say Back
So, someone just wished you a Merry Christmas in Polish with a hearty “Wesołych Świąt!” Now, how do you respond? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. There are a few ways to reciprocate the festive cheer, whether you speak Polish or not.
Simple and Direct Responses
The most common and straightforward reply to “Wesołych Świąt” is simply echoing the phrase back: “Wesołych Świąt!” This is perfectly acceptable and shows that you acknowledge and appreciate the greeting. It’s like saying “Merry Christmas” back to someone who just wished you the same.
Adding a Touch of Warmth
If you want to add a little extra warmth to your response, you can say “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” This translates to “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!” It’s a lovely way to extend your well wishes beyond Christmas Day.
For Non-Polish Speakers
If Polish isn’t your forte, don’t fret. A simple “Merry Christmas” in English is perfectly fine. Most Polish speakers understand English, especially during the holiday season when interactions with international visitors and family are common. A warm smile and genuine “Merry Christmas” will be well-received.
Showing Appreciation (Beyond the Basics)
To express a deeper appreciation, you could say something like “Dziękuję! Wesołych Świąt również!” This means “Thank you! Merry Christmas to you too!” It’s a polite and thoughtful way to acknowledge their greeting.
Informal Responses
If you’re talking to close friends or family, you might use more informal phrases like “Wesołych Świąteczek!” This is a more affectionate, diminutive version of “Wesołych Świąt” similar to saying “Merry Christmas” in a sweeter, more casual tone.
Regional Variations
While “Wesołych Świąt” is the most common way to say Merry Christmas in Polish, you might also hear regional variations. Don’t be surprised if you encounter phrases like “Zdrowych i spokojnych świąt,” which means “Healthy and peaceful holidays,” or “Radosnych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia,” which is a more formal and religious way of saying “Joyful Christmas.” A simple “Wesołych Świąt” back is still a perfectly appropriate response in these instances.
Navigating the Nuances of Polish Christmas Greetings
Responding to “Wesołych Świąt” can feel a little daunting if you’re unfamiliar with Polish customs. However, the most important thing is to be sincere and reciprocate the well wishes. Whether you choose a simple “Wesołych Świąt” or opt for a more elaborate phrase, your genuine effort will be appreciated. Remember, Polish Christmas celebrations are often steeped in tradition, and exchanging greetings is a significant part of the festivities. Taking the time to learn and use even a simple Polish phrase can go a long way in showing respect and creating a warm, festive atmosphere. Here’s a quick cheat sheet summarizing common responses:
| Polish Phrase | English Translation | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Wesołych Świąt | Merry Christmas | Standard Response |
| Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku! | Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! | Extending Wishes |
| Dziękuję! Wesołych Świąt również! | Thank you! Merry Christmas to you too! | Polite and Appreciative |
| Wesołych Świąteczek! | Merry Christmas (informal, affectionate) | Close Friends/Family |
| Don’t be afraid to embrace the festive spirit and try out these phrases! Even a small effort to speak a little Polish will be warmly received and contribute to the joyful atmosphere of the holiday season. This small gesture can build bridges and foster a sense of connection, making your Christmas experience even more memorable. |
Beyond the Basics: Other Festive Polish Phrases
So, you’ve mastered “Wesołych Świąt” – congrats! But Polish Christmas greetings extend far beyond that basic phrase. Just like English speakers have a whole repertoire of festive sayings (“Happy Holidays,” “Season’s Greetings,” “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”), Polish offers a delightful range of expressions to spread the holiday cheer. Learning a few more will not only impress your Polish friends and family but also give you a deeper appreciation for the richness of the language and culture.
Sharing Joy and Well Wishes
Beyond the standard “Wesołych Świąt,” you can express more specific wishes. For example, “Zdrowych i radosnych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia” translates to “Healthy and joyful Christmas.” This phrase emphasizes well-being and happiness during the festive season. It’s a lovely, heartfelt sentiment that goes beyond a simple “Merry Christmas.”
For a Prosperous New Year
“Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” is the go-to phrase for “Happy New Year!” But, if you want to wish someone a truly prosperous new year, try “Do siego roku!” which literally translates to “Until next year!” but carries the connotation of wishing someone well until you see them again in the new year. You can also say, “Wszystkiego najlepszego w Nowym Roku!” meaning “All the best in the New Year!” This is a more general well-wishing, perfect for acquaintances or colleagues.
Expressing Gratitude and Enjoyment
During the Christmas season, expressing gratitude and enjoying the festivities are paramount. “Smacznego!” is a must-know phrase meaning “Enjoy your meal!” This is especially relevant during Wigilia, the traditional Christmas Eve dinner. You can also say “Wesołych Świąt i smacznego!” combining the Christmas greeting with the wish for a delicious meal. To express gratitude for the gifts or hospitality, a simple “Dziękuję bardzo” (Thank you very much) will always be appreciated.
Around the Christmas Table
Polish Christmas Eve dinner, known as Wigilia, is a central part of the celebration. Learning a few phrases related to this special meal can add a touch of authenticity to your greetings. “Opłatek” refers to the Christmas wafer shared among family members before the meal begins, often accompanied by wishes for good health and happiness. You might hear someone say, “Podzielmy się opłatkiem” which means “Let’s share the wafer.”
Singing Carols and Sharing Traditions
Carols, or “kolędy,” play a significant role in Polish Christmas traditions. Joining in on the carol singing, even if you don’t know all the words, is a wonderful way to participate in the festivities. Learning a few lines of a popular carol like “Bóg się rodzi” (God is born) will surely impress your Polish hosts. “Cicha noc” (Silent Night) is another beloved carol that transcends language barriers.
Gift-Giving Etiquette
When giving gifts, you can say “To dla ciebie” (This is for you). Upon receiving a gift, express your gratitude with “Dziękuję bardzo” (Thank you very much) or “Bardzo dziękuję” (Thank you so much). A warm and genuine expression of thanks is always appreciated.
Regional Variations
Be aware that some regional variations in pronunciation and phrasing might exist. However, the standard phrases mentioned above are generally understood and appreciated throughout Poland.
A Festive Vocabulary Boost
| Polish Phrase | English Translation |
|---|---|
| Wigilia | Christmas Eve dinner |
| Opłatek | Christmas wafer |
| Kolędy | Christmas carols |
| Prezenty | Presents |
| Choinka | Christmas tree |
Beyond Merry Christmas: Extending Your Polish
Learning these festive phrases is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of Polish culture and language. It’s a gesture of respect and appreciation that will undoubtedly be welcomed by your Polish friends and family. Don’t be afraid to try them out – even a small effort goes a long way in showing that you care. Plus, it’s a fun way to add a little Polish flair to your holiday season!
Saying “Merry Christmas” in Polish
Extending festive greetings in someone’s native language adds a touch of warmth and respect, particularly during Christmas. In Polish, the most common way to say “Merry Christmas” is “**Wesołych Świąt**” (pronounced ve-SO-wikh SHFYONT). This phrase literally translates to “Merry Holidays,” encompassing the entire Christmas season. While technically plural and referring to the holidays as a whole, it’s understood and accepted as the standard Christmas greeting. Using this phrase demonstrates cultural sensitivity and is sure to be appreciated by Polish speakers.
While “Wesołych Świąt” is sufficient and widely used, you can add “Bożego Narodzenia” (BO-zhe-go Na-ro-DZE-nya), meaning “of Christmas,” to be more specific. The full phrase, “Wesołych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia,” translates to “Merry Christmas Holidays” or more naturally, “Merry Christmas.” While more formal, it’s equally appropriate and demonstrates a deeper understanding of the language.
People Also Ask about Saying Merry Christmas in Polish
How do you pronounce “Wesołych Świąt”?
The pronunciation of “Wesołych Świąt” can be challenging for non-native speakers. The “W” sounds like a “V,” the “ł” sounds like a “W,” and the “ą” has a nasalized “o” sound. The “ś” is pronounced as a “sh” sound. The “ch” at the end of “Świąt” is a voiceless fricative similar to the “ch” in the Scottish word “loch.” Breaking it down phonetically, it’s approximately “ve-SO-wikh SHFYONT.”
Can I just say “Merry Christmas” in English?
While Polish speakers often understand English, making the effort to greet them in their native language is a sign of respect and goodwill. It demonstrates an appreciation for their culture and adds a personal touch to your holiday wishes. Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, the effort will likely be appreciated.
Are there other Polish Christmas greetings?
Yes, there are other greetings you can use, although “Wesołych Świąt” is the most common. You might also hear “Zdrowych i spokojnych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia,” which means “Healthy and peaceful Christmas Holidays.” This is a more formal and traditional greeting, often used among families and close friends.
What about Happy New Year in Polish?
If you want to wish someone a Happy New Year as well, you can say “Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku” (shcheng-shlee-VEH-go no-VEH-go RO-koo). You can combine this with the Christmas greeting: “Wesołych Świąt i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!” meaning “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!”