Santa Fe Honors Indigenous Peoples' Day with Traditional Dances from 23 Tribes

Santa Fe maintains a profound connection with the Native Pueblo peoples of Northern New Mexico. Constructed on Indigenous homelands and villages, the city embodies a diverse, culturally rich community. It takes great pride in the enduring contributions of its first peoples to the city's identity and vitality.

In October 2016, the City of Santa Fe officially designated the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples' Day. This unanimous resolution by the Governing Body recognizes and honors the profound contributions of Native Americans to the history and culture of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the United States. Each year, the city celebrates its valued Native American neighbors from New Mexico's 23 Tribes, Nations, and Pueblos, its urban Native citizens, and the vibrant Native American arts, cultural, and educational institutions that define its unique sense of place.

On October 9 and 10, 2021, dance groups representing many of the 23 area Tribes performed traditional dances and music at the historic Santa Fe Plaza in celebration of Indigenous Peoples' Day.

Red Turtle Pueblo Dance Group performing the Butterfly Dance (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)

The 2021 Plaza dance schedule was developed with input and recommendations from Tribal Leaders and Tribal Tourism partners.

George Rivera, past event chair and former Governor of the Pueblo of Pojoaque, states, "Collaboration, recognition, and celebration are the focus of Indigenous Peoples' Day. The event provides an opportunity for locals and visitors alike to experience Native culture and expand their knowledge and appreciation of Indigenous communities in New Mexico."

Santa Fe tourists enjoy a selfie with Native American Fancy Dancers (Photo courtesy of TOURISM Santa Fe)

Enchanted by Santa Fe's beautifully diverse multicultural landscape, visitors from around the world flock to The City Different to experience authentic Native American art and culture year-round. The city hosts this dedicated annual celebration to highlight the vital role of Native culture and contributions to its community.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE

Saturday, October 9, Santa Fe Historic Plaza:

• 10 a.m. Dance group TBD 
• 11 a.m. Danza Azteca de Anahauc (Taos)
• 1 p.m. Serpent Trail Dance Group (Ohkay Owingeh)
• 2 p.m. Soaring Eagle Dance Group (Zuni)
• 3 p.m. Lightning Boy Hoop Dancers (Intertribal)

Sunday, October 10, Santa Fe Historic Plaza:

• 10 a.m. Oak Canyon Dance Group (Jemez)
• 11 a.m. Kallestewa Dance Group (Zuni)
• 1 p.m. Sky City Buffalo/Ram Dance (Pueblo of Acoma)
• 2 p.m. Dance group TBD
• 3 p.m. Pojoaque Pueblo Youth Hoop Dance Group 

Monday, October 11, Events at the Institute of American Indian Arts, the Santa Fe Indian School, and through the Santa Fe Indigenous Center

Santa Fe Indigenous Peoples' Day 2021 was presented by the City of Santa Fe and TOURISM Santa Fe, in collaboration with New Mexico's 23 Tribes, Nations, and Pueblos.

For more information on Indigenous Peoples' Day, visit the official Indigenous Peoples' Day page.