The 90th Burning of Zozobra

How do you get rid of the bad thoughts and vibes that have held you captive for the past months? You head to the burning of Will Shuster's Zozobra, of course. Originally thought of in 1926 as part of the Fiestas de Santa Fe, this “part-ghost, part-monster” has grown to be over 50 feet tall and signifies a way to cleanse the emotional constraints that inhabit residents of the Land of Enchantment. Seeing this structure alight in flame and stuffed with papers (each containing notes of the hardships of the past year) is a festive nod toward the future. One of the City Different's most sacred and celebratory traditions, the event, put on the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe, includes food and drink from multiple vendors, ceremonial dancing that tells the story of Old Man Gloom and culminates in a glorious effigy at dusk. Happening Friday, Aug. 29, at Fort Marcy Park (320 Artist Rd.), the gates open at 2pm, with entertainment kicking off at 2:30pm. It's a nice way to settle with a blanket and some good people before the real action happens at 7pm. Price is $10, but children 10 and under get in for free. (Mark Lopez)