The 100th burning of Zozobra on August 30th, 2024, promises to be an unforgettable experience. Here’s your comprehensive guide to ensure you make the most of this historic event.
Zozobra 2024 will be held at Fort Marcy Park in Santa Fe. The event features an evening of entertainment, including live music, performances, and the dramatic burning of the 50-foot “Old Man Gloom,” culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. The centennial celebration will include special activities and commemorations, making this a truly memorable occasion.
Related Content: History and Evolution of Zozobra: 100 Years of Burning Gloom – Explore the origins and evolution of this iconic event.
Getting There
With very limited parking at Fort Marcy Park, here’s how to arrive on time:
- Free Shuttle Service: Park at the South Capitol Rail Runner Station and take the free shuttle buses, which begin running at 5 pm and continue until 8:30 pm. The shuttle will drop you off near the entry gate at Washington Ave. and Paseo de Peralta.
- Rail Runner Express: Traveling from Albuquerque? Take the Rail Runner to Santa Fe. Shuttle services from the South Capitol Rail Runner Station will take you directly to the event.
- ADA Services: Dedicated ADA shuttles are available for mobility-challenged guests from the South Capitol Station to a special viewing area.
- Biking: Ride your bike to the event and securely store it with the Santa Fe Bike Valet near the entry gates.
What to Expect
- Entertainment: The event kicks off at 4 pm with live music, cultural performances, and centennial activities.
- The Official Zozobra Show: Starting at 6 pm, enjoy a series of performances, including the National Anthem and speeches by local dignitaries. The burning of Zozobra will begin around 8:30 pm, followed by a stunning fireworks display.
- Submitting Your Glooms: Don’t miss the opportunity to submit your “glooms”—notes of worries or frustrations you want to let go of. Submit them online before the event at Burn My Gloom for $1. These will be included in the effigy and burned during the event.
Road Closures
Plan ahead for road closures around Santa Fe on the day of the event:
- Murales Road: Partial closures starting at midnight, full closure at 7 am.
- Bishop’s Lodge Road: Closes at 4 pm from Paseo de Peralta to Valley Drive.
- Artist/Hyde Park Road: Closes at 5 pm from Bishop’s Lodge to Gonzales Road.
- Multiple Streets: Additional closures start at 5 pm, including Washington Street, Old Taos Highway, Rosario Boulevard, and sections of Griffin Street and North Guadalupe Street.
Important Policies: Bag and Non-Allowed Items
Approved Bags:
- Only 12″ x 6″ x 12″ clear plastic bags or 1-gallon plastic freezer bags are allowed.
Non-Allowed Items:
- No purses, backpacks, or coolers of any kind.
- No water bottles (free cups and water stations are available).
- No weapons, alcohol (outside the beer garden), recreational drugs, or large equipment.
- Only collapsible cloth camping chairs are allowed in General Admission. No chairs, tripods, or large equipment are allowed in Premium Viewing.
A locker truck is available on-site for storing non-allowed items at $10 per locker.
What to Bring
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers, as Santa Fe’s August evenings can be cool.
- Seating: Bring a blanket or portable chair for comfort during the event.
- Cash/Card: While many vendors will accept cards, some may be cash-only. Plan accordingly to ensure you can enjoy the full range of food and merchandise.
What to Bring
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers, as Santa Fe’s August evenings can be cool.
- Seating: Bring a blanket or portable chair for comfort during the event.
- Cash/Card: While many vendors will accept cards, some may be cash-only. Plan accordingly to ensure you can enjoy the full range of food and merchandise.
Tips for First-Time Attendees
- Arrive Early: The 100th burning is expected to be particularly crowded, so arriving early will help you secure a good spot and enjoy the pre-event entertainment.
- Stay Hydrated: The high desert climate can be dry, even in the evening. Water bottles are not allowed inside the venue, but free water stations and cups will be available.
- Plan Your Exit: Exiting the event can be slow with large crowds, so plan accordingly and be patient.
Related Content: How to Experience Zozobra: Tips for First-Time Attendees – A practical guide to getting the most out of your visit to this year’s event.
Watch from Home
If you can’t make it to Fort Marcy Park for the 100th burning of Zozobra, you can still be part of the experience from the comfort of your home. KOAT Action News 7 will broadcast the event live on August 30th. Coverage begins at 7 p.m. and can be viewed on KOAT 7 or streamed on KOAT.com.
For a seamless viewing experience, you can also stream the event for free on the Very Local app. Download the app from Very Local to watch the event live.
Special Centennial Activities
In celebration of the 100th burning, expect unique performances, historical displays, and additional activities that commemorate the event’s rich history.
Attending Zozobra 2024 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the 100th burning of this iconic effigy. Whether you’re there to burn away your “glooms” or simply to witness the spectacle, this year’s event promises to be a historic and deeply moving experience. Don’t forget to submit your “glooms” online, plan your transportation carefully, and prepare for an evening of renewal, community, and celebration.
For more detailed information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Burn Zozobra website.
