German Phrase
Hast du am Wochenende was Aufregendes vor?
Meaning
This phrase is a casual way to ask someone about their plans for the upcoming weekend, specifically inquiring if they have anything interesting or exciting scheduled. The 'was' is a colloquial short form of 'etwas' (something), and 'vorhaben' means 'to have something planned' or 'to intend to do something'.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal settings with friends, family, or colleagues you know well. It's perfect for starting a conversation about weekend activities or catching up on someone's plans. It implies a friendly interest in their leisure time.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Hast duam WochenendewasAufregendesvor?
Hast du... vor?
This is the inverted question form of 'Du hast etwas vor' (You have something planned). The verb 'vorhaben' is a separable verb, meaning the prefix 'vor-' moves to the end of the sentence in main clauses.
am Wochenende
'Am' is a contraction of 'an dem'. 'An' is a two-way preposition here, taking the dative case because it refers to a specific point in time (on the weekend). It literally means 'on the weekend'.
was
This is a colloquial short form of 'etwas' (something). It's very common in spoken German and makes the phrase sound more natural and informal.
Aufregendes
'Aufregendes' is a nominalized adjective, meaning an adjective used as a noun. It comes from 'aufregend' (exciting) and takes the neuter ending '-es' because it refers to an unspecified 'something' (etwas/was).
🗨In Conversation
Na, wie geht's? Hast du am Wochenende was Aufregendes vor?
Hey, how are you? Do you have anything exciting planned for the weekend?
Hallo! Ja, ich fahre in die Berge zum Wandern. Und du?
Hi! Yes, I'm going to the mountains for hiking. And you?
✕Common Mistakes
Hast du am Wochenende etwas Aufregendes?
While 'etwas' is grammatically correct, 'was' is much more common and natural in spoken German for 'something' in this context. Also, the verb 'vorhaben' is crucial here.
Hast du am Wochenende etwas Aufregendes zu tun?
This is understandable but less idiomatic. 'Vorhaben' (to have planned) is the standard verb for expressing plans or intentions.
Hast du am Wochenende etwas Aufregendes geplant?
While 'geplant' (planned) is correct, 'vorhaben' is more natural and common for personal, informal plans. 'Geplant' often implies more formal or organized planning.
↔Alternatives
Hast du Pläne fürs Wochenende?
Do you have plans for the weekend?
Was machst du am Wochenende?
What are you doing on the weekend?
Gibt es etwas Spannendes am Wochenende?
Is there anything exciting on the weekend?
Cultural Tip
Germans often plan their weekends in advance, and asking about plans is a common way to engage in small talk. While direct, this question is considered friendly and shows interest. Don't be surprised if you get a detailed answer about hiking, visiting family, or cultural events, as Germans tend to be quite organized with their free time.

