Hope Lights Every Home
- Lisseth Esperanza Potosme Guevara
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Fireworks, simple meals, and the heartfelt joy of family reunions.
On Christmas Eve, something truly special happens in the homes of families in Nicaragua.
The day begins like any other—parents head out early to work, doing everything they can to earn a bit of income, whether it’s selling goods, helping someone cook, cleaning, or taking on any task available during the busy holiday season.
But when evening arrives, the spirit of Christmas fills their homes. Families come together, even relatives or friends who live far away, gathering to celebrate unity, gratitude, and hope.
Despite their limitations, parents lovingly prepare a simple but meaningful dinner—often the only special meal of the year. Traditional dishes like stuffed pork or chicken and seasonal desserts fill the table, fireworks light up the sky, Christmas music is played in all houses, and the joyful laughter of children playing with their friends echoes through the neighborhood.
The same tradition is repeated on New Year’s Eve, but this time they create “El Viejo,” a male stuffed doll dressed in old clothes. They place it outside their homes and burn it at midnight. This act symbolizes letting go of the old year, releasing past hardships, and welcoming the new year with hope.
At midnight, families welcome Christmas and welcome the New Year. They share blessings, hope for new opportunities, and cherish the warmth of being close to their loved ones. Some feel the sadness of those who are no longer with them, but the love of family becomes a powerful source of healing, keeping the spirit of the season alive.
Warm holiday wishes from EI children, families, and staff.
This Christmas, consider giving a Child the Gift of Learning
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