Visit the Heritage Village
Step into our living history at the Santa Rosa Heritage Village.
Plan Your Visit
Preserving the Legacy of First People of Trinidad & Tobago
Honoring our ancestors, celebrating our culture, and building our future.
Rituals & Spirituality
Discover ancient ceremonies and modern practices.More on Rituals & Spirituality
A Message from Our Chief/Cacique
“Wa’kómone,
It is with great joy that we welcome you to the virtual home of the Santa Rosa First Peoples Community. For centuries, our ancestors have walked these lands, living in harmony with nature and preserving sacred traditions.
Today, we continue their legacy—honoring our past while building a future rooted in resilience, education, and cultural revival.
This website is a bridge between generations and communities. Here, you will discover the richness of our history, the vibrancy of our cultural practices, and the ongoing work to reclaim and celebrate our heritage. Whether you are a descendant, a scholar, or a friend of the First Peoples, we invite you to explore, learn, and join us in this journey.
Parépakaba,
Ricardo hernandez
Chief/Cacique/Community Leader
Santa Rosa First Peoples Community
Explore & Engage
Discover meaningful ways to experience and support the Santa Rosa First Peoples. Whether you’re visiting, learning, or contributing, start your journey here.
Upcoming Events
Indigenous Knowledge Sharing / Heritage Week
When: Often aligned with International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples (August 9th) or held separately
What it is:
A week of workshops, storytelling, artisan demonstrations, and cultural presentations, especially geared toward youth and schools. Activities are often held at the Heritage Village and include bush medicine talks, crafts, music, and traditional food.
Upcoming Events
Remembering the Ancestors
When: Usually held in May or June
What it is:
A solemn spiritual event dedicated to remembering the ancestors of the First Peoples. It features offerings, rituals at sacred sites (like the Red House or burial grounds), and prayers led by the Shaman or elders. This day emphasizes healing, continuity, and connection to the spirit realm.
Upcoming Events
First Peoples Day of Recognition (formerly called Amerindian Heritage Day)
When: October 13th (or around mid-October)
What it is:
Recognized nationally since 2017 when a one-time public holiday was declared, this day celebrates the resilience and contributions of the First Peoples. It includes ceremonies, educational activities, cultural showcases, and often open house events at the Heritage Village in Arima.
Upcoming Events
Santa Rosa Festival (Feast of Santa Rosa de Lima)
When: August (Last Sunday)
What it is:
This is the most prominent and widely attended celebration of the First Peoples. Though centered around the Catholic saint Santa Rosa de Lima, it blends Christian and Indigenous rituals. The festival includes a sacred procession through Arima, cultural performances, traditional drumming, and offerings that honor both ancestral and spiritual forces.
In Their Words
Hear from visitors, partners, and descendants about their experiences with the Santa Rosa First Peoples – where heritage comes alive.
Testimonials
“I think my Descendants are of the first people family name is Moreno and Orosco will like to get more onto it.”
“Our ancestral history and heritage influenced a lot of what we do today. Although some of the culture has been lost or forgotten, it is never too late to resuscitate interest through education and participation. The Santa Rosa First Peoples Community, through their endeavors is one body that has been successful in doing so in Trinidad & Tobago.”
“They are all good people.”
“Took 71 Std 1 students there on a field trip and it was : Very informative and wonderful for learning about the First Peoples way of life.”
Become Part of Our Story
Whether you’re reconnecting with your heritage or standing in solidarity, your support helps preserve Trinidad’s First Peoples’ legacy for generations to come.