OLD MAN GLOOM FRIED IN SANTA FE

For the first time since moving down here in 1994, I attended the famous burning of Zozobra in Santa Fe tonight.  Held annually, this event officially marks the beginning of the Santa Fe Fiesta with the 55-foot-tall portrayal of "Old Man Gloom" being burned in effigy, taking everyone's troubles away.  It was a lot of fun — plenty to eat and drink, and the ceremony itself was preceded by fire dancers and plenty of other fireworks as well.

Add this to the list of unique things to see and do in New Mexico during this time of year.  If I'm still down here next year, I will definitely return to see Zozobra go up in flames once again.