Burning Man is opening the door early for people hoping to return to the Nevada desert next year, laying out when tickets go on sale, how much they cost, and what is new for the 2026 gathering in Black Rock City.
The Burning Man Project announced on January 8 that its annual event will return to Black Rock City in 2026, again drawing more than 70,000 participants from over 100 countries.
The theme for the coming year is Axis Mundi, with organizers saying the temporary city will once again be built around large-scale art, camps, and mutant vehicles, centered on connection and joy.
“Burning Man in Black Rock City is the most unique event on the planet, bringing art, creativity, and innovation together to the blank canvas of the Nevada desert,” Burning Man Project CEO Marian Goodell said. “Over the past 40 years, the culture has grown, and millions of people have participated in and been impacted by Burning Man around the world - this is so inspiring and makes us so excited to once again build Black Rock City with the international Burning Man community.”
The nonprofit said registration for the first 2026 ticket sale opened Monday, January 26, and runs through February 3 at 12 p.m.
The Sunrise Sale, described as the best chance to secure a ticket early, begins February 4 at 12 p.m.
Tickets available in the Sunrise Sale include $775 “pay your way” tickets and higher-priced “give the gift” options at $975, $1,500, and $3,000.
A limited number of $675 “get the gift” tickets will also be offered. Organizers said a payment plan option is new this year.
All tickets provide the same access to the event, regardless of price. The Burning Man Project said the tiered ticket system reflects the culture of gifting, with higher-priced tickets helping to support reduced-price options and broader participation.
“Pay your way” tickets are meant to cover the cost per attendee, while “give the gift” tickets function like charitable nonprofit contributions that help fund interactive art and support the long term sustainability of Black Rock City, according to organizers.
Several ticket programs are expected to return later in the season. The Ticket Aid program will again make $250 tickets available to people with limited incomes. The Renaissance program focuses on inviting networks and collectives to contribute to the city, while the Resilience program is designed for people impacted by natural disasters or geopolitical conflict. All three are expected to open in late February.
The Stewards Sale for core contributors is scheduled for March, followed by the Main Sale in April. Organizers said they expect tickets to sell out during the Sunrise, Main, and Stewards sales.
Additional details on ticket sales, pricing, and the purchase process are available through the Burning Man Project.
