Santa Fe’s most iconic annual event, the Burning of Zozobra, returns for its 101st year on Friday, August 29, 2025. Tickets went on sale March 14, 2025. Each year, thousands gather at Fort Marcy Park to watch Zozobra burn, a symbolic farewell to the past year’s troubles. Plus, your participation supports local children’s programs through the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe.
What is Zozobra?
If you’re unfamiliar, Zozobra began in 1924 when artist Will Shuster created a small puppet to symbolize collective anxiety. Today, that modest puppet has transformed into a towering, 50-foot-tall marionette known affectionately as Old Man Gloom. Each year, community members fill Zozobra with their written worries, anxieties, and regrets, and then collectively watch as they’re set ablaze — signaling a fresh start.
Managed by the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe since 1964, this meaningful tradition unites the community while supporting youth programs.
Ticket Options for Zozobra 2025
A range of ticket options lets you tailor your experience, from general admission to premium viewing areas with some of the best seats in the house.
General Admission
- $30 in advance | $35 after July 31 | $40 at the gate
- Kids 10 and under enter free in general admission areas.
- New Mexico residents save $5 on tickets purchased before August 15.
- Buy three, get one free if you purchase before July 31 (general admission only).
General Admission with Express Entry
- $35 in advance | $40 online on event day | $45 at the gate
- Skip the entry lines with exclusive access.
- New Mexico residents save $5 when purchasing by August 15.
- Kids 10 and under are free in this section.
Premium Viewing Locations
Premium ticket areas put you right in the action with standing-room-only access. All attendees, including kids 10 and under, need a ticket for these areas.
The Ultimate Zozobra Experience – $349.99
- Private dinner at La Fonda on the Plaza.
- Escorted entry to the event.
- Opportunity to throw beach balls to the crowd.
- Exclusive Zozobra hoodie and goodie bag.
- Roast marshmallows over Zozobra’s embers.
Front and Center – Starting at $124.99
- Reserved area just 100 feet from Zozobra.
- Ticket prices increase closer to the event date.
The “Z” Zone – Starting at $184.99
- The only seated viewing area.
- Valet coach pick-up and drop-off.
- Raised platform seating with refreshments.
The Fire Pit – Starting at $89.99
- Just 110 feet from the action.
West of the Wild One – Starting at $74.99
- A 175-foot vantage point from Zozobra.
East of the Beast – Starting at $59.99
- Positioned 145 feet away for a prime view.
Buy In Person
Starting March 17, 2025, in-person tickets are available at FS2 Supply Co. in the Santa Fe Railyard:
- 500 Market St., Ste. 108, Santa Fe
- Tuesday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Sunday: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Closed Mondays
Submit Your Gloom — Let it Burn!
Ever wanted to literally set your troubles on fire? Here’s your chance! For just $1, you can send your worries, regrets, and grievances to be stuffed inside Zozobra before he meets his fiery fate. From unpaid bills to breakup letters, your personal burdens can vanish into ashes — making room for new beginnings. Purchase Your Gloom Here!
Get Your Tickets
Tickets go on sale March 14, 2025. Be sure to grab yours early as premium areas sell out fast.
Visit BurnZozobra.com for more details and to purchase tickets. Read 14 Things to Know About Zozobra.
This article was posted by Jesse Williams
