Zozobra Burning Kicks Off 2005 Santa Fe Fiesta

The burning of Zozobra, scheduled for dusk on Friday September 9, will mark the traditional beginning of the annual Santa Fe Fiesta. This colorful event will take place in Fort Marcy Park, located just a few blocks from the historic Santa Fe Plaza.

Nicknamed “Old Man Gloom”, Zozobra is a 50-foot tall marionette with a black bow tie, black belt and cuffs, big neon green glowing eyes and huge red lips. He was created by Santa Fe artist Will Shuster in 1924 and represents all of the gloom that people have experienced throughout the year.

It is believed that as Zozobra burns away, all of the past years hardships and disappointments that people have experienced burn away with him.

As soon as it begins to get dark small fires are lit in front of Zozobra. A Fire Spirit Dancer in a red costume and small white “glooms” start dancing in front of it. Fireworks light up the night sky while Zozobra is burned. After the performance, the street leading from the park to the Plaza is closed to traffic so spectators can walk to the Plaza to dance, eat and socialize.

The Plaza is the cultural heart of Santa Fe, and despite the historic nature of the area, it’s still pretty accessible. Curb-cuts are plentiful even in the oldest areas of town, and most of the historic buildings now have at least one accessible entrance. The new museums were constructed to be accessible, while most gallery owners have also made efforts to accommodate all visitors. All in all, with a little advance planning, it’s pretty easy for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to enjoy the city.

For more information about the burning of Zozobra, visit www.zozobra.com.

For details about the Santa Fe Fiesta visit www.santafefiesta.org.

And for more information about accessible sights, transportation, lodging and cultural attractions in Santa Fe, New Mexico, read the Autumn 2005 issue of Emerging Horizons.