The people of Picuris have a rich cultural heritage.  Their ancestors migrated to their present location approximately 750 years ago, around 1250 AD, from a larger pueblo in the Pot Creek area, which had a population of nearly 5,000. The traditional life at Picuris has remained relatively unchanged.  The Traditional Council, an eight member Tribal Council, and a Governor and Lieutenant Governor are elected by the people to govern the village.  Elections occur the first of every year. 

The Pueblo celebrates the feast of San Lorenzo, which is observed with church services, foot races, and traditional dances on August 10^th every year.  There are a number of other special celebrations and dances, including the Matachina Dances on Christmas Day.  A full listing of these can be found on the Calendar Page of this site.  Learn more about history, revival of the bison, or their tradition of micaceous pottery.