Every New Mexico pueblo holds dances for its feast day-the holiday commemorating the Catholic saint who is its patron. Other dances might be held at Christmas, New Year's Day and other times in late winter or summer. Dances commonly open to the public include the corn, deer and buffalo dances. Every dance is a prayer, not a performance, and as such, we are privileged to observe them. The nature and timing of dances vary from village to village and proceed rain or shine.
Dances usually begin mid-morning and continue until sunset with an afternoon break.
Refrain from walking across the dance plaza, climbing on walls or entering the ceremonial rooms. Please keep silent during the dances and do not applaud afterwards. It is wise to call the governor's office or tourist center at the Indian tribe or pueblo before visiting. The staff can provide all kinds of useful information and advise you about taping, photography, sketching and recording restrictions, which vary. Indian laws apply on Indian lands.