December brings a wave of greetings—at the shops, at work, in emails, on the street, and from friends and family. “Merry Christmas!” is one of the most common holiday phrases you’ll hear, yet knowing exactly how to respond isn’t always straightforward.

Maybe you don’t celebrate Christmas. Maybe you’re unsure how formal to be. Maybe you want something warmer than a simple “You too.” Or maybe you want a response that’s polite without encouraging further conversation.

This guide offers natural, friendly, and versatile things to say when someone wishes you “Merry Christmas,” covering casual situations, workplace settings, people of different faiths, acquaintances, close family, and even those awkward or unexpected moments.

1. Simple, Polite Responses (Works in Any Situation)

These are the easiest, safest replies. Ideal for anyone—from the cashier in the supermarket to colleagues you barely know.

• “Merry Christmas!”
• “You too—hope you have a lovely Christmas.”
• “Thanks! Wishing you a great Christmas as well.”
• “Thank you! Same to you.”
• “Thanks—enjoy the holidays.”

Why these work:

Short, warm, and appropriate for every context. No overthinking required.

2. Friendly and Slightly Warmer Responses

Use these when you’re happy to reciprocate with a bit more warmth or personality.

• “Merry Christmas! Hope you get a proper break.”
• “Thanks! Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and New Year.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope you spend it with good people and good food.”
• “Thank you! I hope your Christmas is relaxing and joyful.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope it’s a special one for you.”

These add a personal note but still keep things light and simple.

3. Professional Responses for Work Settings

Ideal for clients, colleagues, customers, or anyone you interact with professionally.

• “Thank you. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a successful New Year.”
• “Thanks—hope you have a restful Christmas break.”
• “Merry Christmas. Looking forward to working together in the new year.”
• “Thank you—enjoy the holidays, and speak soon.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope you have a productive and positive year ahead.”

These sound polished without being salesy or stiff.

4. If You Don’t Celebrate Christmas

Many people want to be polite without pretending they observe the holiday. These replies acknowledge the kindness of the greeting while keeping your own boundaries clear.

• “Thank you! Wishing you a lovely holiday season.”
• “Thanks—hope you enjoy the festivities.”
• “Thank you. I hope you have a great Christmas.”
• “Thanks—enjoy the holidays with your loved ones.”
• “Thank you—wishing you peace and joy this season.”

These responses are warm, respectful, and inclusive.

5. Inclusive Alternatives (Ideal for Diverse Groups)

These work if you want to respond in a way that encompasses all holidays.

• “Thank you! Happy holidays.”
• “Thanks—wishing you a wonderful festive season.”
• “Thank you—hope the season treats you well.”
• “Happy holidays! Enjoy the break.”
• “Thanks—hope your celebrations are joyful.”

These are especially useful in multi-faith workplaces or public settings.

6. What to Say When You Want to Keep It Very Brief

For those moments when you’re busy, tired, or simply not in the mood for conversation.

• “You too.”
• “Thanks.”
• “You as well.”
• “Cheers—same to you.”
• Just a friendly nod and smile if speaking isn’t needed.

These are polite while signalling that you’re not inviting extended chat.

7. Thoughtful Responses for Friends and Family

When someone close wishes you Merry Christmas, you may want something a little more personal.

• “Merry Christmas—grateful for you and looking forward to time together.”
• “Thanks! Christmas wouldn’t be the same without you.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope it’s filled with warmth, laughter, and everything you love.”
• “Thanks—wishing you a beautiful Christmas surrounded by the people who matter.”
• “Merry Christmas—sending you lots of love.”

These feel heartfelt without being overly sentimental.

8. If You’re Not Feeling Festive

If the holiday season is emotionally difficult, it can be tricky to reply without sounding abrupt.

You can keep it gentle:

• “Thank you—that’s kind.”
• “Thanks. Wishing you a peaceful Christmas.”
• “Thank you—hope your Christmas is a good one.”
• “Thanks, appreciate it.”
• “Thank you—sending warm wishes.”

You’re not required to return the exact phrase if it doesn’t feel right, but you can still respond warmly.

9. Humorous or Light-Hearted Replies (When Appropriate)

Use these only with people who appreciate a bit of fun.

• “Merry Christmas—may your leftovers last until New Year.”
• “Thanks—hope Santa brings you something better than socks.”
• “Merry Christmas! May the Wi-Fi be strong and the relatives calm.”
• “Thanks—hope your Christmas is as magical as the adverts pretend.”
• “Merry Christmas—don’t eat all the chocolates at once.”

These help break the ice and keep things cheerful.

10. Text and Email Replies

Digital messages often need something slightly more complete.

• “Thank you! Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and New Year.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope you have a great break.”
• “Thanks—enjoy a relaxing and joyful Christmas!”
• “Merry Christmas! Hope you’re celebrating in style.”
• “Thank you—wishing you warmth, peace, and a happy holiday season.”

These work for personal and professional messages.

11. Responses for Acquaintances or People You Barely Know

Keep it polite and neutral.

• “Merry Christmas!”
• “Thank you—enjoy the season.”
• “Thanks—same to you.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope it’s a nice one.”
• “Thanks—wish you a great holiday.”

Short, friendly, and appropriate.

12. When Someone Says “Merry Christmas” Very Enthusiastically

Sometimes people deliver the greeting with full festive energy, and a slightly warmer reply feels most natural.

• “Merry Christmas! Hope it’s a brilliant one for you.”
• “Thank you! Wishing you the most wonderful Christmas.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope your celebrations are amazing.”
• “Thanks—same to you! Enjoy every moment.”
• “Merry Christmas—hope it’s filled with joy.”

Matching their tone makes the interaction feel natural.

13. When a Customer or Client Says It to You

If you’re responding on behalf of your business:

• “Thank you—wishing you a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.”
• “Thanks for your support this year. Merry Christmas!”
• “Thank you—hope you enjoy a wonderful Christmas.”
• “Merry Christmas, and thank you for choosing us.”
• “Thanks—wishing you a joyful festive season.”

Warm, professional, and brand-safe.

14. When You Want a Non-Religious Response

Even if the greeting itself is religious, your reply doesn’t have to be.

• “Thank you—hope you enjoy the season.”
• “Thanks—wishing you a peaceful and happy holiday.”
• “Thank you—hope you have a great break.”
• “Thanks—enjoy the festivities.”
• “Thank you—sending warm wishes your way.”

Friendly and neutral.

Final Thoughts

“Merry Christmas” is one of the most common greetings of the season, but responding doesn’t need to be complicated. Whether you celebrate Christmas, prefer inclusive language, want to keep it brief, or enjoy adding humour, there’s always a polite, natural reply that fits the moment.

The key is matching the tone of the situation: simple for strangers, warm for friends, polished for work, neutral if you don’t celebrate, and light-hearted when the person clearly enjoys the festive spirit.

Choose the phrases that feel comfortable, genuine, and true to you—and you’ll never be stuck for words when someone says “Merry Christmas” again.

You might also like What to Say When Someone Says “Happy New Year”

About the Author

Helen Bach is a relationship expert and writer who helps people find the right words when it matters most. She studied English and English Literature at the University of Michigan, where she developed a passion for how language shapes love, conflict, and connection.

At whattosaywhen.net, Helen writes clear, down-to-earth advice on what to say in real-life situations—from first dates and tough conversations to breakups and makeups. Her goal is simple: to make talking about feelings less awkward and a lot more honest.