Learning how to wish someone a happy birthday in Spanish can be a fun way to connect with friends, family, or even colleagues who speak the language. 🎉
If you’ve ever wondered, “how do you say happy birthday in Spanish?”, you’re in the right place!
In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to say it, when to use each phrase, and tips on pronunciation that make your greetings sound natural.
Whether you’re writing a card, sending a message, or saying it face-to-face, by the end of this article, you’ll feel confident sharing birthday wishes like a native speaker.
Let’s dive in!
The Basic Way | ¡Feliz Cumpleaños!
The most common way to say “happy birthday” in Spanish is:
¡Feliz cumpleaños!
Pronunciation: feh-LEES koom-pleh-AH-nyos
- Example: ¡Feliz cumpleaños, María! Espero que tengas un día increíble.
(Happy birthday, María! I hope you have an amazing day.)
Just like in English, this phrase works in almost any situation—formal or informal—so it’s your go-to birthday greeting.
Adding Warmth | ¡Feliz Cumple!
In casual settings, especially with friends or younger people, you might hear:
¡Feliz cumple!
Pronunciation: feh-LEES koom-pleh
- Example: ¡Feliz cumple, Carlos! Vamos a celebrar.
(Happy bday, Carlos! Let’s celebrate.)
It’s shorter, playful, and perfect for texts, social media, or quick verbal wishes.
For Formal Occasions
If you’re wishing someone in a more respectful or professional way, you can say:
Le deseo un feliz cumpleaños
Pronunciation: leh deh-SEH-oh oon feh-LEES koom-pleh-AH-nyos
- Example: Le deseo un feliz cumpleaños y mucho éxito en el año que viene.
(I wish you a happy birthday and much success in the year ahead.)
Use this with teachers, bosses, or people you don’t know well.
Fun and Festive Additions 🎉
Spanish speakers often add a little extra flair to birthday wishes:
- Que lo pases muy bien (Have a great day!)
- Muchos años más (Many more years!)
- Felicidades (Congratulations!)
- Example: ¡Feliz cumpleaños! Que lo pases muy bien y que tengas muchos años más.
(Happy birthday! Have a great day and many more years.)
Common Follow Up Phrases
After saying “happy birthday,” you might want to ask a friendly question or continue the conversation:
| English Phrase | Spanish Phrase | Pronunciation |
| How are you? | ¿Cómo estás? | KOH-moh es-TAHS |
| Did you celebrate? | ¿Celebraste? | seh-leh-BRAHS-teh |
| Goodbye / See you soon | Adiós / Hasta luego | ah-DYOS / AH-stah LWEH-goh |
These small phrases help make your conversation smoother and more natural.
Mini Vocabulary List
- Birthday – cumpleaños
- Celebrate – celebrar
- Cake – pastel / torta
- Party – fiesta
- Gift / Present – regalo
Knowing these words will make your birthday wishes richer and more personalized.
Cultural Notes 🌎
In many Spanish-speaking countries, birthdays are celebrated with songs, parties, and even piñatas for kids. “Las mañanitas” is a traditional Mexican birthday song sung early in the morning to the birthday person. Adding a local touch like this can make your greeting extra special!
Conclusion
Now you know how to say happy birthday in Spanish in several ways—from casual to formal—and even learned some fun extras to make your wishes lively. 🎂 Remember, practice makes perfect: try saying these phrases aloud, text a friend, or write them in a card. With a little effort, you’ll surprise Spanish speakers with your natural and friendly birthday greetings. Keep practicing, and don’t be afraid to add your personal flair!
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