New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve in El Salvador, known as *Nochevieja* or *Fin de Año*, is a vibrant and festive celebration that brings together family, friends, and communities to bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new one. The holiday is marked by a mix of traditions, lively parties, and cultural customs. Many Salvadorans celebrate with family gatherings, enjoying traditional foods such as *pupusas* (stuffed corn tortillas), *tamales*, and *pan con pollo* (chicken sandwiches). At midnight, fireworks light up the sky, and people toast with champagne or other drinks to ring in the new year. A unique tradition involves burning *muñecos* (effigies or dolls) made of old clothes and paper, symbolizing the shedding of the past year's troubles and starting anew. Music, dancing, and street parties are common, with many people attending public events or private celebrations. Some also participate in the tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight, each grape representing a wish for the upcoming months. Overall, New Year's Eve in El Salvador is a time of joy, reflection, and hope for a prosperous year ahead.