festivity

noun

fes·​tiv·​i·​ty fe-ˈsti-və-tē How to pronounce festivity (audio)
fə-
plural festivities
Synonyms of festivitynext
1
2
: the quality or state of being festive : gaiety
3
: festive activity

Examples of festivity in a Sentence

The decorations give the hall an air of festivity. The festivities will include a parade, a concert, and games for children. We enjoyed the New Year's Eve festivities.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
All the festivities came to a halt in the sixth minute when Austin took the lead on a header by Guilherme Biro off a Facundo Torres corner kick. Miami Herald, 5 Apr. 2026 The 13 Going on 30 actress ditched her signature minimalist glam for a bright pink lip while giving fans a glimpse at her Easter festivities with her family on Sunday. Lara Walsh, InStyle, 5 Apr. 2026 In addition to their royal traditions, Prince William and Princess Kate have previously revealed that George, Charlotte and Louis also celebrate Easter with traditional festivities like egg hunts and lots of candy. Meredith Kile, PEOPLE, 5 Apr. 2026 Celebrating community, culture, and creativity at the 404 Day festivities. Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 5 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for festivity

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of festivity was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Festivity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/festivity. Accessed 8 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

festivity

noun
fes·​tiv·​i·​ty fes-ˈtiv-ət-ē How to pronounce festivity (audio)
plural festivities
1
2
: the quality or state of being festive
3
: festive activity

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