Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo (ȉałopháymųp’ȍhə́othə̀olbo - Place of Red Willows)

Located just north of downtown Taos, Taos Pueblo is home to the Taos-speaking Tiwa people and is one of New Mexico’s most historically important pueblos. The community is known for its multistory adobe village, Taos Mountain, and sacred Blue Lake, which was returned to the pueblo by the federal government in 1970 after a long fight for religious freedom. Taos Pueblo also operates Taos Mountain Casino, located just outside the historic village, with gaming, casual dining, and entertainment for locals and visitors.

Historic Pueblo center

The heart of Taos Pueblo is its iconic adobe village, where stacked earthen homes rise beneath Taos Mountain. Visitors can walk through public areas, shop from local artisans, go on a free guided tour, and experience one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America. Near the center of the pueblo, San Geronimo Chapel remains an important place of worship for the community. The current chapel was completed around 1850 after the earlier mission church was destroyed during the Taos Revolt of 1847; the ruins of that older church still stand near the pueblo cemetery and are considered a sacred area.

Feast Days & Public Ceremonies

Some events may be open to visitors, while others are private, restricted to community members, or closed without notice. Access, schedules, and photography rules can change, so visitors should confirm directly with the Pueblo before attending.

• January 1 — Transfer of Canes to new Pueblo tribal officials; Turtle Dance
• January 6 — Honoring new Pueblo tribal officials; Deer and Buffalo Dances
• Easter Sunday — Easter Dances
• May 3 — Santa Cruz Feast Day, Blessing of the Fields, and Corn Dance
• June 13 — Corn Dance
• June 24 — Corn Dance
• Second weekend in July — Taos Powwow
• July 25 — Santiago Feast Day and Corn Dance
• July 26 — Corn Dance
• September 30 — San Geronimo Feast Day, Arts & Crafts Fair, foot races, and pole climb
• December 24–28 — Christmas Dances (times and locations vary)

Visiting Respectfully

New Mexico’s pueblos are living communities, not museums. They are sovereign tribal nations with their own governments, laws, and traditions. When visiting, remember that you are a guest on tribal land.

• Obey all posted signs and respect areas marked as private or off-limits.
• Do not photograph people, homes, religious activities, or ceremonies without permission.
• During dances and ceremonies, remain quiet and avoid crossing ceremonial areas.
• Do not remove pottery shards, artifacts, plants, or other objects from pueblo lands (you will be cursed).
• Observe all posted speed limits and traffic laws. Going 5 mph over can get you a ticket.