German Phrase
Es ist an Silvester.
Meaning
This phrase indicates that a particular event or state occurs on the 31st of December. In German, 'Silvester' specifically refers to New Year's Eve, named after Saint Sylvester.
When to use
Use this phrase when scheduling parties, explaining holiday traditions, or confirming the date of year-end festivities. It is the standard way to pinpoint the last day of the calendar year.
✦Grammar Breakdown
EsistanSilvester
Es ist
The third-person singular form of 'sein' (to be), used here to identify a point in time.
an
A preposition used with holidays and specific days to indicate 'on'.
Silvester
A proper noun referring to December 31st; note that it is spelled with an 'i', not a 'y'.
🗨In Conversation
Wann ist eure große Party?
When is your big party?
Es ist an Silvester.
It is on New Year's Eve.
✕Common Mistakes
Es ist in Silvester.
English speakers often incorrectly use 'in' for dates; German uses 'an' for specific days or holidays.
Es ist am Silvester.
While 'am' is used for days of the week, 'an' is the traditional preposition for this specific holiday name.
↔Alternatives
Es findet an Silvester statt.
It takes place on New Year's Eve.
Wir feiern an Silvester.
We celebrate on New Year's Eve.
Cultural Tip
Silvester in Germany is a major celebration featuring massive firework displays and the tradition of watching the British comedy sketch 'Dinner for One'. It is common to wish others a 'Guten Rutsch' (a good slide) into the new year before the clock strikes midnight.