The Governor’s office distributed 5,000 free tickets to various organizations, including the Cancer Foundation, the Children, Youth and Families Department, Girls Inc., the Housing Trust, local tribal entities, Santa Fe Boys and Girls Club, Santa Fe area schools, Santa Lucia, LLC, Umbrella Children’s Theater with Teatro Paraguas and YouthWorks.

“Zozobra is a cherished tradition for our community, symbolizing renewal and hope for generations of New Mexicans. It’s essential that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to participate in this unique cultural event,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham.

For 100 years, the people of Santa Fe have gathered to burn away their sorrows in a fiery spectacle known as the Burning of Zozobra. This annual tradition, deeply rooted in the culture and history of New Mexico, has captivated generations with its dramatic representation of renewal and rebirth.

Zozobra, originally conceived by local artist William Howard “Will” Shuster Jr., has grown from a small, private gathering into a major public event, attracting around 60,000 attendees each year. The event continues to be a source of community pride, symbolizing the unique spirit of Santa Fe.

This year’s event, taking place on Friday, August 30, marks the 100th burning of Zozobra, a cultural tradition held sacred by Santa Feans since its inception in 1924.

Since 1964, the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe has donated $3.5 million—adjusted for inflation—from the net proceeds of the Zozobra event. These funds have supported student scholarships and provided direct grants to nonprofits serving the youth of Santa Fe. Last year, Zozobra contributed $100,000 to organizations such as Girls Inc., Saint Elizabeth Shelter, adaptive ski programs, Cooking with Kids, and Gerard’s House. Additionally, through Kiwanis International Project Eliminate, Zozobra has played a vital role in saving 80,000 lives by providing vaccines to women and their newborns, preventing neonatal tetanus.