Meaning
Holiday greeting.
Cultural Background
The Dutch celebrate 'Sinterklaas' on Dec 5th, but 'Prettige feestdagen' is reserved for the Christmas/New Year period. In Flanders, 'Prettige feestdagen' is equally common and used in the exact same way as in the Netherlands. Companies often send digital cards with this phrase to maintain professional relationships without being overly religious.
The 'n' drop
In casual speech, you can drop the 'n' at the end of 'feestdagen'. It sounds more natural.
Inclusive greeting
Use this phrase to avoid assuming someone celebrates Christmas specifically.
Meaning
Holiday greeting.
The 'n' drop
In casual speech, you can drop the 'n' at the end of 'feestdagen'. It sounds more natural.
Inclusive greeting
Use this phrase to avoid assuming someone celebrates Christmas specifically.
Test Yourself
Complete the phrase.
Prettige ____!
The standard phrase is 'Prettige feestdagen'.
Which is correct?
How do you wish someone happy holidays in Dutch?
This is the most common and standard form.
Match the situation to the greeting.
It is December 24th. What do you say?
December 24th is during the holiday season.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Prettige feestdagen! B: ____.
The standard polite response to a holiday wish.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesPrettige ____!
The standard phrase is 'Prettige feestdagen'.
How do you wish someone happy holidays in Dutch?
This is the most common and standard form.
It is December 24th. What do you say?
December 24th is during the holiday season.
A: Prettige feestdagen! B: ____.
The standard polite response to a holiday wish.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsNo, it is strictly for the December holiday season.
It is neutral and works in almost any context.
They are synonyms; 'Fijne' is slightly more common in casual speech.
It is optional but very common.
No, it is a secular way to wish people well.
Yes, it is perfectly appropriate for professional settings.
Because it refers to the multiple days of the holiday season.
Simply say 'Dankjewel, jij ook!' (Thank you, you too!).
Related Phrases
Gelukkig nieuwjaar
similarHappy New Year
Fijne kerstdagen
specialized formHappy Christmas
Prettige vakantie
contrastHappy vacation
