Burning Man CEO Marian Goodell is asking for urgent donations to save the longtime festival format. The request comes amid staff layoffs and recent slow ticket sales. “We are at an inflection point as a nonprofit. On the one hand, global interest is at an all-time high, and the world needs Burning Man more than ever. On the other hand, we are well past the point where ticket revenues from Black Rock City are able to support our year-round cultural work,” she explained. 

With vital efforts necessary for the stability and longevity of the week-long desert occasion, Goodell explained the financial hardships resulting from the latest iteration of Burning Man, “As I previously shared, the big revenue shortfall causing today’s cash crunch is primarily from 2024 Black Rock City higher-priced tickets not selling as planned. This $5.7M shortfall, combined with a $3M dip in receipts from main-sale tickets and vehicle passes, means that our year-end charitable donation target has essentially doubled to nearly $20M. This needs to happen before 2025 ticket sales and our annual revenue cycle begins in January.”

Goodell spelled out a plan explaining the effects of necessary donor support: “We are working behind the scenes to raise money from dedicated major donors, but this moment will work better if we look to the long term and engage everyone. Translation: We need your help to keep Burning Man accessible for the next generation!”

“Your steadfast generosity and ongoing donations are needed to help secure the long-term of Burning Man,” Goodell explained, tacking on intentions for an increase in ticket prices. To read more about Burning Man’s current hardship and approach to longevity, follow this link. 

Donations can be made here.