Imagine feeling the vibrant pulse of Diné culture as the autumn air sweeps across the Shiprock plains and mesas. The 112th annual Northern Navajo Nation Fair, from October 2 to 5, 2025, is more than just an event; it’s a powerful celebration of unity, heritage, and the unbreakable bonds of family that span generations. This year’s theme, “Families Are Our Strength,” invites you to an unforgettable experience where every color, sound, and heartbeat tells a story of enduring tradition and collective power.
Navajo County Fair & Rodeo 2025
October 2-5, 2025
Northern Navajo Fairgrounds
Hwy 491 & Uranium Blvd, Shiprock, NM
Ceremony & Community Rhythm
Feel the deep spiritual energy as the Yei Bi Cheii Nightway Ceremony unfolds, a sacred healing ritual rarely seen by outsiders. You’ll be captivated by the mesmerizing sight of dancers in traditional masks and regalia, moving in perfect rhythm to ancient chants and drumbeats, each motion telling a story of healing, balance, and deep connection to the land and spirit. As you respectfully observe, you’ll sense the palpable spiritual resonance that grounds this extraordinary event. Later, Thursday evening transforms into an uplifting Gospel Outreach Night from 7–11 pm, where the air will be filled with the joyful harmonies of local church choirs and vibrant contemporary gospel groups. Imagine gathering with families under the starry sky, clapping and singing along, wrapped in a heartfelt celebration of faith that will stir your soul.
Event Schedule
October 1, 2025 (Wednesday)
Gospel Night
- Time: 6:30pm – 11:00pm
October 2, 2025 (Thursday)
Baby Contest
Session 1: Newborn – 12 months
- Time: 8:00am – 10:00am
- Limit: 10 participants (Male & Female)
- Categories: Crown princess, Brave, Most Presentable, Best dress, Best Traditional Talent, Best Song
Session 2: 13 to 36 Months
- Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Limit: 10 participants (Male & Female)
- Categories: Most Presentable, Best dress, Best Traditional Talent, Best Song
Session 3: 37-60 Months
- Time: 12:00pm – 2:00pm
- Limit: 10 participants (Male & Female)
Chili Cook Off
- Time: 3:30pm – 5:00pm
- Limit: 10 participants
- Categories: Male Category (1st-4th place), Female Category (1st-4th place)
- Requirements: Food Handler’s Permit, 18+ years old
Country Western Dance
- Time: 9:00pm – 1:00am
- Entertainment: Aces Wild / 4brothers Band
- Door Prizes: Yeti Ice Chest, Dewalt Bluetooth Speaker
October 3, 2025 (Friday)
Build a Pubby House Contest
- Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
- Limit: 6 participants
- Categories: 1st-4th place, Most Creative, Best Audience/Engagement
- Requirements: 18+ years old
Live Concert
- Time: 7:30pm – 11:00pm
- Artists: Dzaki Sukarno, Antoinex, Rez Coast Grizz
- Raffle Prizes: (2) NFL Cardinals Tickets, (2) Beats Headphones
Country Western Dance
- Time: 9:00pm – 1:00am
- Entertainment: Country Rebels
- Door Prizes: Camping gear, Gift Certificate
Enjoy an evening w/grandparents
- Time: 5:00pm – 8:00pm
- Entertainment:
- Navajo Magician Stage Performance
- Traditional Flute Player/Storyteller Father & Daughter
- Hoop Dancer
- Bird Singers Performance
Halloween Costume Contest
- Categories: Male & Female (Limit 10 each)
- Awards: 1st-3rd place, Funniest, Scariest, Most Presentable
October 4, 2025 (Saturday)
Afternoon Entertainment
- Time: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
- Performances:
- Bird Singers
- Navajo Basket Dancers
- Apache Crown Dancers
- Sash Belt Dancers
- Little Wrangler’s (Song & Dance)
- Niiha Dance Group
- Eagle Dance Group
- Hoop Dancer
- Buffalo Dance
October 5, 2025 (Sunday)
Free Raffle Drawing for all Spectators
- Time: 1:00pm
- Prizes:
- 80″ screen TV
- Yeti Ice Chest
- Chain saw w/ oil & gas
- (2) truckloads of wood
- Pendleton Blanket
- Truck toolbox
- Dewalt tool set
- 20 bales of hay
- $1,000.00
- Laptop
Rodeo & Powwow: Heart-Pumping Action
Feel your heart pound with excitement as the Women’s & Masters Rodeo kicks off with stunning barrel turns, sharp roping, and fearless horsemanship. Then, witness the grit and determination of the next generation at the Junior Rodeo, where young riders fearlessly tackle goat tying and mini-bull riding.
The energy explodes with the Open World Rodeo, a true adrenaline rush from Friday to Sunday! Imagine powerful broncs bursting from chutes, bulls bucking wildly, and ropers racing against the clock, all while the grandstands erupt in thunderous cheers. The air will be thick with the scent of leather, dust, and delicious grilled foods, creating an unforgettable sensory experience. Tickets to the fair gains entry to the rodeo.
Beyond the arena, the powwow grounds come alive with vibrant traditions. On Saturday, be mesmerized as the Grand Entry becomes a stunning river of color beaded regalia, feathered bustles, and jingling dresses—all moving to the steady, resonant heartbeat of the drum echoing across the fairgrounds. Sunday’s powwow offers a heartfelt tribute to veterans and elders, with dancers moving in powerful, precise rhythms that beautifully unite generations and fill you with awe.
Artisan Exhibits, Horticulture & Pageantry
Before the fair begins, local farmers, weavers, and jewelry makers showcase their work. By Thursday, the halls are filled with the scent of fresh herbs, displays of silver jewelry, woven rugs, and hand-tooled leather goods. You might see a towering sunflower alongside a handcrafted turquoise bracelet, both prized in Navajo tradition.
Navajo Pageantry
Saturday’s Miss Northern Navajo & Miss Teen pageants add elegance and cultural pride to the main stage. Contestants wear traditional clothing, answer questions in both Navajo and English, and share stories of their heritage before the crowns are awarded.
Ticket Information
- Adults: $10
- Seniors (60+) & Children: $5
- Parking (daily): $10
Things to Know
- Bring: water, sun protection, and layers for changing temperatures.
- Arrive early on parade day and powwow nights to secure good seats.
- Respect ceremony spaces, observe quietly, and follow guidelines.
- Support local dining at food booths featuring Navajo fry bread, tacos, and regional favorites.
Whether your heart calls you to traditional dances, the tempting aromas of local foods, or the lively, joyful atmosphere, this remarkable event offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars and join us in celebrating not just a fair, but a living testament to cherished Navajo traditions, a powerful showcase of resilience and spirit. Get ready to create unforgettable memories! Find all the latest updates about the fair on the website.
Visiting the Four Corners
The Four Corners is a unique region where the borders of four states—Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah—meet. This rugged and arid landscape, part of the Colorado Plateau, is rich in both geological wonders and cultural history. It is also home to several Native American nations, most notably the Navajo Nation, which manages the iconic Four Corners Monument where visitors can stand in all four states at once. Within this vast and diverse territory lies Shiprock, a magnificent peak that rises from the New Mexico desert. A sacred landmark for the Navajo people, Shiprock is a powerful presence to be appreciated and photographed from paved roads, as all other activities on the peak are strictly prohibited out of respect for its spiritual significance.
Visitors are welcome to view and photograph this National Natural Landmark from the paved roads, such as Indian Service Route 13 or U.S. Highway 491, to appreciate its majestic presence. Due to its religious significance, all other activities—including climbing, camping, or driving on the dirt roads leading to the formation—are strictly prohibited. When visiting, be sure to plan ahead, as there are no amenities like restrooms, food, or gas stations near the peak, and cell phone service is unreliable.
Last Updated on 09/06/2025 by Fernando Rosas Suarez
About the Author:
CLN Community & Event Sponsor
