09/13/2026
25th Navajo Nation Council celebrates 78th Annual Navajo Nation Fair parade with community members
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – On Saturday, the 25th Navajo Nation Council, Office of the Speaker, and Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council joined families and community members for the 78th Annual Navajo Nation Fair parade, greeting attendees and distributing candy, bananas, cold water, and other items along the parade route.
“The Navajo Nation Fair parade is a special time for our families and communities to come together, celebrate and enjoy this tradition,” Council Delegate Vince R. James said. “As we enjoy the parade with our children, elders and loved ones, we also want everyone to be mindful of their surroundings and look out for one another. The safety of our families, parade participants, and visitors is important, and we want everyone to have a safe and memorable experience.”
Council Delegates James, Amber Kanazbah Crotty, Germaine Simonson, Helena Nez Begay, Norman M. Begay, Eugenia Charles-Newton, Shawna Ann Claw, Titus Nez, Arbin Mitchell, Dr. Andy Nez and Curtis Yanito walked the parade route alongside members of the Navajo Nation Youth Advisory Council, including Chair Aryiah James, Daelyn Benally, Makyle Dan and Kendri Kinlacheeny. Special guests representing White Mountain Apache royalty also joined the group.
Throughout the parade, council delegates and Youth Advisory Council members greeted attendees, shook hands, danced with children, and distributed refreshments to families lining the route. Their participation gave them a chance to thank community members for supporting the Navajo Nation Fair and encourage families to safely enjoy the remaining fair activities.
Shawn Martinez, senior director of live presentation for the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury and Valley Suns, provided music along the parade route and engaged with attendees. T-shirts were also distributed to enthusiastic Suns and Mercury fans along the route, adding to the celebration and entertainment.
“The Navajo Nation Fair brings thousands of our people together to celebrate our culture, communities and families, and we encourage everyone to continue enjoying all the activities the fair has to offer,” Delegate Dr. Nez said. “With many families spending long hours outdoors and walking between events, please remember to drink plenty of water, take breaks when needed, and watch out for our children and elders. We want everyone to enjoy the festivities and return home safely.”
The 78th Annual Navajo Nation Fair features a variety of community, cultural, and entertainment activities that bring together Navajo families, visitors, and neighboring communities. The annual parade remains one of the fair’s signature events, giving communities, leaders, organizations, youth, and guests a chance to celebrate together in Window Rock.
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