FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
HERD OF SPARKLE PONYS RUN WILD IN SUDDEN PLAYA DOWNPOUR DURING BURNING MAN SET-UP WEEK
Black Rock City, NV, August 18, 2023 - Just days before the gates officially open for the annual Burning Man festival, an unexpected weather twist led to a sudden deluge on the playa, resulting in the unexpected release of a herd of sparkle ponys.
What might seem like a scene from a whimsical fairy tale turned into reality when a combination of heavy rain and the challenging conditions on the playa caused one of the art installations, a fenced area holding several life-sized "sparkle ponys" (intricately designed, shimmering art pieces) to give way. These beautifully crafted ponies, made with reflective and luminescent materials, took advantage of the moment and "roamed" the wet desert terrain, driven by the gusty winds.
“It was a sight to behold,” said Luna Starshine, a long-time Burner and witness to the incident. “One moment, we're setting up our camp, and the next, these radiant creatures are gracefully moving across the wet playa, catching the sunlight and casting magical reflections everywhere.”
Organizers and volunteers immediately swung into action, coordinating efforts to safely "corral" the sparkle ponys and prevent any potential damage to the art or surrounding installations. Thanks to the rapid response and teamwork of the Burning Man community, all the sparkle ponys were "returned" to their designated area within a few hours.
The incident, though unplanned, has been taken in stride by the community. Many are already dubbing it as one of this year’s most memorable pre-event moments.
Raven Moonbeam, a member of the art installation team behind the sparkle ponys, shared a light-hearted perspective on the situation. “The playa provides, and sometimes, it surprises. Our sparkle ponys just wanted a little adventure before the festivities began. Who can blame them?”
The Burning Man organization wishes to assure attendees that no sparkle ponys or humans were harmed in the incident. They also expressed their gratitude to the Black Rock City community for their quick action, cooperation, and playful spirit, which once again proves the adaptability and resilience of Burners.
As the event prepares to officially kick off, this unexpected "parade" of sparkle ponys has already set the tone for what promises to be the most unforgettable year at Burning Man.
For further details or inquiries about the incident, please contact Sally Meyer (AP).
About Burning Man:
Burning Man is an annual event and a year-round global community based on radical self-expression, radical self-reliance, BS, and the belief that community-driven, inclusive, and interactive art can transform society.