Colombian singer Shakira has fans in El Salvador buzzing with anticipation as she prepares for a series of concerts in San Salvador. The superstar’s arrival marks her first performances in the country, drawing crowds from across Central America, including Costa Ricans eager to catch the shows.
Workers finalize the stage at Jorge “Mágico” González Stadium in western San Salvador. The venue seats about 30,000 people per night. Shakira plans five dates on her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran” tour: February 7, 8, 12, 14, and 15. Tickets sold out fast, prompting organizers to add extra nights after the initial three dates vanished in under 24 hours.
A large mural greets visitors on the stadium’s south side. Artist Efraín Orellana, 36, painted Shakira’s face in bright colors. He calls it a tribute to welcome her. The piece mixes local symbols: El Salvador’s map, the Divino Salvador del Mundo monument, and the torogoz bird. Another mural by urban artist TNT Grafiti appears at the main entrance near the statue of soccer legend Jorge “Mágico” González, adding to the street art that captures public interest.
Local businesses thrive amid the hype. Juan Henríquez runs a workshop in Merliot, 10 kilometers east of the capital. He prints T-shirts with Shakira’s image and phrases. “It’s a big craze,” he says. Nearby, Marcos López, 40, hawks caps, hats, and flags from a street spot next to the stadium. He pitches items to drivers and walkers. López appreciates the attention. “She took us into account as a country,” he notes. “We’re grateful because there’s business for us too.”
The government views the events as a boost for the economy. Officials project 88 percent of attendees come from El Salvador, with 12 percent from abroad. This influx fills hotels and spikes demand for transport and services. El Salvador promotes safe travel spots like El Tunco and El Zonte beaches, the Ruta de Las Flores, and Golfo de Fonseca. Special packages bundle concert entry with tours.
This residency stands as the tour’s only Central American stop. It pulls fans from neighboring nations, including Costa Rica. Travel agencies here report increased bookings for flights and buses to San Salvador. One operator in San José notes groups heading north for the February 7 opener. The shows promise hits from Shakira’s career, plus tracks from her latest album.
Organizers divide the stadium into zones for different experiences. Ultra and Platinum sections offer close views, priced up to $275. General admission starts at $45. Videos online show stage setups and seating previews. Safety measures include access maps and traffic plans from the transport ministry.
Shakira’s team lands in the country. Musicians and dancers arrived at San Óscar Romero Airport. Technical crews handle final touches. Cabins with song-themed decor let fans snap photos outside the venue.
The series turns San Salvador into a regional hub. With 82,000 expected over five nights, it highlights El Salvador’s growing role in entertainment. For Costa Ricans, the short trip offers a chance to join the celebration. Flights from Juan Santamaría Airport take under two hours.
As the first concert nears, streets around the stadium pulse with energy. Vendors set up stalls, and fans share stories online. Shakira’s visit unites people through music, creating lasting memories for locals and visitors alike.
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