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Every culture has its unique ways of celebrating the holidays, and the Dominican Republic is no exception. Just as Dominicans have a knack for inventing words and expressions to capture daily life, they’ve also created seasonal phrases that bring festive cheer. Here are five quintessential Dominican phrases that make the holiday season even more vibrant:

1. “Tamo’ en Bebiembre” (We’re in Bebiembre)

This playful phrase combines “beber” (to drink) with “diciembre” (December), perfectly capturing the festive spirit of the month. In the Dominican Republic, December is synonymous with celebrations and, of course, a bit of indulgence. It’s not December —it’s “Bebiembre,” the month for merriment and raising your glass!

2. “La vieja Belén viene en camino” (“Vieja Belén” is on her way)

This one has a folkloric twist.

The “Vieja Belén” is a Dominican spin on Italy’s Befana, a kind-hearted witch who helps the less fortunate. The phrase is often used after Three Kings’ Day when Dominican children traditionally receive gifts. If a child’s present hasn’t arrived yet, this saying gives parents a little extra time to scrape together funds and deliver the magic. Read more about “La Vieja Belén” here.

3. “Volvió Juanita” (Juanita is back)

This phrase celebrates the return of Dominicans living abroad. You are most likely to hear this phrase when they come to the country to spend their Christmas vacation with their families or are coming back for good. It originates from the beloved merengue song Volvió Juanita by Milly Quezada, which, fun fact, doesn’t mention the word “Navidad” (Christmas) within its lyrics but has become a Christmas classic in the Dominican Republic.

4. “Dame mi Navidad” (mi noche buena o mi Reye’), (Give me my Christmas, my New Year’s Eve or my Three Kings)

This festive demand is all about gifts. Whether it’s a present, a holiday tip, or a donation, Dominicans use this phrase to playfully insist on their due. Variations include “mi noche buena” (my Christmas Eve) or “mi Reye’” (my Three Kings). It’s a cheerful reminder that the holidays are about giving — and receiving!

5. “Ya se siente la brisita navideña” (You can feel the Christmas breeze now)

When the sweltering heat of the Dominican Republic gives way to cooler breezes in December, you’ll hear this phrase everywhere. The “brisita navideña” signals the arrival of the holiday season, with refreshing winds gracing dawn and dusk through early February. It’s the Dominican version of sweater weather, and it’s magical.

These phrases are more than just words — they reflect the warmth, humor, and traditions that make Dominican Christmas celebrations truly special. Whether you’re hearing them for the first time or revisiting them as part of your holiday memories, they’re bound to put you in a festive mood.

Originally published on Dec. 9, 2014
Revised: Dec. 26, 2024