Experience a variety of activities in celebration of Indigenous Peoples' Day October 7–9, 2023!

In October of 2016, the City of Santa Fe officially designated the second Monday of October annually as Indigenous Peoples' Day. The unanimous Resolution by the city's Governing Body honors and recognizes the contributions of Native Americans to the history and culture of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the United States. 

Each year, Santa Fe reserves the weekend prior and the day itself to honor its Native American neighbors from the 23 Tribes, Nations, and Pueblos in New Mexico, its urban Native citizens, and all of the Native American arts, cultural, and educational institutions that give the city such a strong sense of place. After all, Santa Fe was built on Indigenous Peoples' homelands and villages, and as a result, is a culturally and historically rich community.

Red Turtle Pueblo Dance Group dancing the Butterfly Dance 

George Rivera, past event chair and past Governor of the Pueblo of Pojoaque says, “Collaboration, recognition, and celebration are the focus of Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend. The activities throughout the city offer 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 taking a selfie with Native American Fancy Dancers during Indigenous Peoples Day
Santa Fe tourists enjoy taking a selfie with Native American Fancy Dancers 

Enchanted by the beautifully diverse multicultural landscape of Santa Fe, visitors from all over the world come to The City Different to experience Native American art and culture throughout the year, however, the city is passionate about this separate celebration once a year to underscore the importance of Native culture. 

SCHEDULE

Saturday, October 7:

  • Dances on the Santa Fe Plaza from 10 am - 3 pm (created with input and recommendations of Tribal Leaders and Tribal Tourism partners)

    • 10am     Danza Azteca de Anahuac (Taos Area)

    • 11am     Indigenous Dance Group (Pojoaque & Nambe)

    • 1pm       Dowa:Kwe Dance Group from Zuni

    • 2pm       Soaring Eagle Dance Group (Zuni)

    • 3pm       Lighting Boy Hoop Dancers

  • Institute of American Indian Arts' free 2023 IAIA Fall Powwow on the campus at 83 A Van Nu Po


Sunday, October 8:

  • Dances on the Santa Fe Plaza from 10 am - 3 pm (created with input and recommendations of Tribal Leaders and Tribal Tourism partners)

    • 10am     Poeh Cultural Center - Pojoaque

    • 11am     Water Strider Dance Group - Zuni

    • 1pm       Oak Canyon Dancers

    • 3pm       Dowa:Kwe Dance Group from Zuni


Monday, October 9: 

For more information on Indigenous Peoples Day, visit Indigenous Peoples' Day.           

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