Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center is operated by the nineteen Pueblos of New Mexico and is dedicated to preserving and perpetuating Pueblo culture as well as highlighting the accomplishments and evolving history of the Pueblo people. It is a gathering place where Pueblo Culture is celebrated through creative and cultural experiences, while providing economic opportunities to Pueblo and local communities.

During the Balloon Fiesta, the Center features several cultural dance performances, and the courtyard is lined with Native artists selling their handcrafted art and jewelry. As we arrived, the Sky City Buffalo Ram Dancers from the Acoma Pueblo were just finishing their Buffalo Dance. I loved that several of the dancers were young children, who seemed to be well-versed in their Native culture.

Sky City Buffalo Ram Dancers

We enjoyed a delicious lunch that showcased the culinary traditions of the Pueblos and then had time to view the permanent and temporary museum exhibits to gain a better understanding of these resilient people.

Before we left, we were treated to a performance by the Cellicion Traditional Zuni Dancers, who performed a traditional dance celebrating the autumn season. We were told that “dances connect us to our ancestors, community, and traditions while honoring gifts from our Creator.”

Cellicion Traditional Zuni Dancers

We returned to our hotel and had a little time to freshen up and relax before setting out for dinner and evening events at Balloon Fiesta.