Each year on the Friday before Labor Day, a marionette the size of a building is set on fire before a crowd of thousands in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It’s the result of months of planning, the efforts of hundreds of volunteers, and a tradition that runs deep in the city’s history. More than a spectacle, it’s a shared release. And behind the flames is a network of artists, sponsors, and volunteers who make it all possible.
If you’re looking to contribute to Zozobra in 2026 by sponsoring, volunteering, or submitting artwork, this guide will walk you through what to do, how to sign up, and what to expect along the way.
Volunteer for One of Santa Fe’s Most Iconic Events
Field setup, crowd support, merchandise sales — every detail has a team of dedicated volunteers behind it. Some are front and center. Most are not. But behind the scenes, handling logistics, helping with ZozoFest, and keeping things running is the Kiwanis Club of Santa Fe and its members, who make Zozobra happen.
Roles Include:
- Field setup and breakdown
- Ticket and merchandise sales
- Crowd guidance and guest support
- Behind-the-scenes logistics
- Assistance with ZozoFest and the Zozobra Art Show
How to Volunteer
Start by completing the online application form. All volunteers over 18 will undergo a background check, paid for by the Kiwanis Club. Once approved, you’ll receive a schedule, training instructions, and contact info for your supervisor. Be prepared to review and sign a waiver before the event.
All ages are welcome, and every skill set is valuable. It’s one of the best ways to get an insider’s view of the event and to know your effort made a real difference.
Sponsor Zozobra and Support Local Kids
Put your brand in front of thousands — and support local kids while you do it.
Proceeds from Zozobra help fund programs for children across Santa Fe through grants distributed by the Kiwanis Club. Sponsorships not only support the event itself, but also connect local businesses with the community in a meaningful way, giving your business visibility in front of a large and engaged audience.
Benefits Include:
- Brand exposure to over 50,000 attendees and a global livestream audience of thousands
- Inclusion in marketing materials and onsite promotional opportunities
- Premium viewing areas, VIP packages, and more
- Fully customizable and flexible packages for businesses of all sizes and sectors
No matter your company’s size or goals, the Kiwanis Club will work with you to create a package that fits your goals.
Interested in Sponsoring?
Reach out to Zozobra Event Chairman Ray Sandoval at (855) 969-6272 or burnhim@burnzozobra.com. You can also browse options on the Sponsorship Opportunities page.
Your support helps fund youth-focused nonprofits, meaning every dollar invested helps build a stronger future for Santa Fe’s kids.
Submit Your Artwork to the 2026 ZozoFest Art Show
Artists are invited to submit original Zozobra-themed work for exhibition at the annual ZozoFest, a free, family-friendly event held at Santa Fe Place Mall the weekend before Zozobra burns.
What Kind of Work is Accepted?
Work in any medium is welcome — painting, sculpture, photography, collage, digital art, video, even Legos. Art should prominently feature Zozobra, the Fire Spirit, Gloomies, Torchbearers, or be inspired by Will Shuster and Los Cinco Pintores. Fiesta-related art is also welcome.
Submission Guidelines
- Deadline for Online Entry: Monday, August 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (MDT)
- File requirements: JPEG images between 1500–3000 pixels on the longest side, titled as YourName_ArtworkTitle.jpg
- Form: Submit through the online submission portal
- Artwork Drop-off: Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Santa Fe Place Mall (next to Boot Barn)
There’s no entry fee, and both for-sale and not-for-sale pieces are accepted. Take time to present your piece professionally. Thoughtful framing or display helps your work stand out and ensures it’s ready for hanging.
Artists are encouraged to be present during ZozoFest, especially if they’d like to talk to attendees about their work. It’s a great opportunity to connect directly with the public and maybe even make a sale. A 25% commission on all sold artwork goes to help Kiwanis fund youth-centered nonprofits, with the remaining 75% paid to the artist within 30 days. Artists who sell over $600 in work will be asked to complete a W-9 for tax purposes.
Be Part of Something Bigger
Zozobra doesn’t happen because one group of volunteers puts on a show. It happens because people keep showing up, year after year, in roles big and small, visible and behind the curtain. That’s how the event has lasted more than a century. That’s how it will keep going.
If you’re thinking about getting involved, now is the time. However you choose to contribute, you’re helping shape one of the most original community events in the country.
