Zozobra Unveiled: The History and Mystery of Santa Fe's Fiery Tradition

Artist William Howard "Will" Shuster, Jr. created Zozobra in 1924 for a party in Santa Fe, inspired by Easter Holy Week traditions. The effigy, a 50-foot high marionette, is made of wood, wire, and cloth, and stuffed with paper including old police reports and divorce papers. Every Labor Day Friday, people gather to watch Zozobra burn at Fort Marcy Park. Shuster oversaw Zozobra's construction until 1964, when he gave the project to the Kiwanis Club. The event brings joy to children and adults alike, with Zozobra symbolizing fear and the Fire Spirit representing hope and renewal. Jacques Cartier, a former ballet dancer, played the Fire Spirit for 37 years. Today, this role is held by Helene Luna.