WINDOW ROCK — Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren joined community members on December 31 to welcome the New Year at the Navajo Shoe Game, a traditional winter gathering hosted by the Navajo Nation Museum.
President Nygren greeted families, elders, and youth, took time to visit with those in attendance and observed the traditional shoe game, known in Diné Bizaad as Késhjééʼ. Played during the long winter nights, the game brings people together through laughter, song, strategy, and friendly competition.
Rooted in Diné creation stories, the shoe game reflects the balance between day and night and carries lessons of teamwork, fairness, and patience. Using moccasins, yucca stems, songs, and clever deception, players test one another’s focus and intuition while keeping tradition alive through shared experience.
“The shoe game reminds us that our traditions are meant to be lived, shared, and passed on,” President Nygren said. “It’s about community, connection, and honoring the teachings that have guided our people for generations.”
Shoe games are held in communities across Diné Bikéyah throughout the winter season.
The Office of the President will continue to share information on upcoming shoe games and community gatherings across the Navajo Nation, encouraging families to participate in these important cultural traditions.
