Santa Fe residents and visitors preparing for the 102nd burning of Zozobra can expect a more streamlined and secure experience at Fort Marcy Park this Friday. Event Chair Ray Sandoval said the organizers have refined entry protocols and increased police presence to safely accommodate the projected 50,000‑person crowd.
Entry guidelines and prohibited items
Attendees are urged to travel light and use clear backpacks or small fanny packs for any belongings. “If you have to bring something in, bring it in a clear backpack, right. Or a little fanny pack that you have that you can wear,” Sandoval explained.
All guests will pass through a magnetometer and a handheld‑wand screening area. The process is designed to move people through the gates quickly while maintaining safety. Prohibited items include weapons, coolers, strollers, purses and water bottles. To help guests comply, the event will provide free water refill stations inside the park and offer lockers for a $10 rental fee.
Food, medical gear and seating
Food is allowed, but it must be repackaged in clear, food‑grade plastic bags supplied at the entrance. “What you’re going to do is you’re going to take that bucket of chicken. We’re going to give you a free food grade clear plastic bag. You’re going to dump that chicken in. And so that way when you go through security, you can hold it up. We can make sure there’s nothing but chicken,” Sandoval said.
Medical equipment will be tagged for easy identification and permitted entry. Cloth folding chairs are also welcome for those who prefer to sit on the grass.
Crowd monitoring and police support
After record‑breaking attendance at the 100th burn, organizers have capped this year’s numbers and are deploying a larger police presence. Drones will monitor gate lines and help staff address any backup or safety concerns in real time.
“We have drones. So that way we can monitor our gates. We can look to see whether or not there’s a backup at our ticket gates. And then we can address problems almost immediately,” Sandoval added.
Entertainment, timing and transportation
Live music will feature headliner Ozomatli, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the performances. No one will be admitted after 8:15 p.m. on Friday, and the event will close promptly after the iconic burning.
Free shuttles will run from the South Capitol Rail Runner station beginning at 5 p.m., providing a convenient, traffic‑free option for those traveling from the city’s south side.
Final reminder
Sandoval summed up the spirit of the night: “Come on down, burn your gloom.” With these safety measures in place, Santa Fe hopes the tradition continues to bring the community together while protecting everyone who gathers to watch Zozobra’s fiery farewell to the year’s troubles.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
