¡Que Viva Santa Fe! Iconic Late-Summer Events and Festivals
End-of-summer in Santa Fe delivers perfect weather, abundant local produce, and the city's most vibrant festivities. Experience the infectious ¡Que Viva! spirit at these beloved traditions.
Zozobra: Santa Fe's Legendary Old Man Gloom
For over 90 years, Zozobra—affectionately known as Old Man Gloom—has been Santa Fe's towering symbol of release. This 50-foot marionette, created in 1924 by artist Will Shuster and presented to the Santa Fe Kiwanis in 1964, is stuffed with community-submitted glooms like shredded report cards, divorce papers, and tax returns. On August 29, it ignites in a spectacular blaze accompanied by fireworks.
Zozobra remains Santa Fe's premier spectacle.
This year's burning launches the Decades Project, featuring designs inspired by past eras—a closely guarded secret that sparks citywide anticipation. In 2013, the Kiwanis introduced Zozofest, a family-friendly prelude on August 23 at Sanbusco Market Center (3-10 p.m.). Enjoy a live Zozobra art exhibition (proceeds benefit the event), photo ops with a giant Zozobra head, and the chance to add your personal glooms. Virtual submissions are accepted online, and the burning streams live here.
Fiestas de Santa Fe: A 400-Year Tradition
Celebrating the 1692 reconquest after the 1680 Pueblo Revolt, Fiestas de Santa Fe is a cornerstone event led by a reenactment of Conquistador Don Diego de Vargas, his Cuadrilla, La Reina, and her court. Preparations build year-round, with pre-Fiesta entertainment on the Plaza starting August 23 (3-7 p.m.) and a Labor Day Arts and Crafts Fair (August 29–September 1).
A taco on four legs takes a stroll at the Fiesta Pet Parade.
The Lensic Theater hosts the Mariachi Extravaganza on September 3. Food booths open September 5, with free Plaza Bandstand entertainment. Highlights include the Desfile de los Niños (Pet Parade) on September 6 at 9 a.m. and the Desfile de la Gente (Hysterical-Historical Parade) on September 7 at 1 p.m. Join the chorus: ¡Que Viva la Fiesta!
Green Chile Cheeseburger Smackdown
Who better than Old Man Gloom to sample the heat in a green chile cheeseburger?
Santa Fe's Green Chile Cheeseburger Smackdown returns, pitting top contenders in a public vote (closing August 15). Six finalists compete September 12 at the Santa Fe Railyard—tickets (including beer) sell out fast! Follow with the Santa Fe Wine and Chile Festival (September 24–28), featuring 90 wineries, 75 restaurants, seminars, dinners, tastings, and a Grand Tasting at the Santa Fe Opera.
Chef Charles Dale of Bouche Bistro offering an amuse-bouche at the Grand Tasting. (Photo Credit: Kate Russell Photography, courtesy of Santa Fe Wine and Chile Fiesta)
Savor Santa Fe's Summer Finale
From Zozobra's fiery purge to festive parades, pet costumes, green chile burgers, and exquisite wine pairings, Santa Fe's events welcome all. Dive into the heart of New Mexico's cultural treasures.
