Moving our family of five from Canada to El Salvador in 2024 was a leap of faith, driven by a desire for freedom and a life aligned with our values. But nothing quite prepared us for the magic of celebrating our first Christmas in El Salvador.
For many people looking in from the outside, the idea of taking young children into downtown San Salvador at night might still seem daunting. We wanted to show you the reality: it was vibrant, beautiful, and incredibly welcoming.
A Day of History and Culture We started our trip just before Christmas Eve, heading into the Historic Center (Centro Histórico). Our first stop was the impressive National Library (BINAES). If you haven’t seen it yet, it is a stunning piece of modern architecture that stands in stark contrast to the historic buildings around it—a true symbol of the new El Salvador.
Next, we took a guided tour of the National Palace. Walking through those halls, seeing the intricate tile work and the grand courtyards, gave us such an appreciation for the rich history of this country. It’s amazing to see these spaces being restored and opened up for families to enjoy.
Lights, Music, and “Buenas” As the sun went down, the city truly came alive. The transition from dusk to night was breathtaking as thousands of Christmas lights illuminated the plaza.
One of the things we love most about the culture here is the warmth of the people. From the “Buenas” greetings to the joyful music filling the square, the atmosphere was purely festive. Seeing our kids running around, taking photos by the giant Christmas tree, and enjoying the lights without worry was a confirmation of why we chose to build our new life here.
Watch the Full Experience Words can only describe so much—you have to see the lights for yourself! Check out our short vlog capturing these special family moments in the heart of the city.
Thinking of Visiting? If you are planning a trip or thinking of moving here, don’t skip San Salvador during the holidays. The revitalization of the city center is real, and the joy of the season is contagious.
Feliz Navidad from the Hagenaars family!
