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ASU Paw Print

Celebrating Navajo New Year: A Time of Harvest, Renewal, and Tradition

Paw Print Writer: P. Kaibah Robinson


As the chill of October settles in and the first full moon rises on October 17, the Navajo Nation welcomes its New Year, a deeply symbolic and sacred time that marks the end of the harvest and the beginning of the winter season. At Adams State University, where we celebrate diversity and the rich cultural heritage of our students and surrounding communities, it's a great opportunity to learn about this significant event in Navajo tradition.

The First Full Moon of October

For the Navajo or Diné people, the New Year begins on the first full moon of October, aligning with the earth's natural rhythms. This moon, often referred to as the "Harvest Moon," signals the completion of harvesting crops like corn, squash, and beans—foods that have sustained the Navajo for generations. The hard work of gathering and preparing for the colder months comes to a close, and a new cycle begins.

This transition is not only practical but also deeply spiritual. As the harvest is stored for the winter, the Navajo people turn their attention to the next phase of the year: winter ceremonies, a time of reflection, storytelling, and connection to their deities.

Winter Ceremonies and the Return of the Deities

As the ground begins to freeze and animals retreat for the winter, the Navajo believe that their holy beings, or deities, re-emerge. This period is when winter ceremonies are performed, providing healing, balance, and guidance for the community. These ceremonies can include traditional chants, dances, and prayers, which are conducted to honor the spirits and keep harmony between the natural world and the human world.

One key element of the Navajo New Year is recognizing that life is cyclical. Just as the seasons change, so do the phases of life. The winter season, marked by the retreat of creatures and the stillness of the earth, is a time to focus inward, both individually and as a community. It is also a time for passing down knowledge, with elders sharing stories and traditions with the younger generation to preserve their culture and way of life.

A Time of Renewal and Preparation

While the winter months can seem bleak, for the Navajo people, it is a season filled with purpose. It’s a time of renewal, where the focus shifts from outward physical tasks like planting and harvesting, to inward spiritual work. The winter ceremonies after the Navajo New Year are meant to purify, guide, and heal. These ceremonies remind the people of the importance of balance—between light and darkness, summer and winter, work and rest.

In this way, the Navajo New Year represents both an ending and a beginning. The harvest represents the fruits of past labor, while the winter brings a quieter time to prepare for what lies ahead. It’s a time to reflect on the lessons learned in the previous year and make space for new growth in the coming one.

Navajo New Year at Adams State University

At Adams State University, where we celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our community, learning about Navajo traditions like the New Year can help us appreciate the deep connection between nature, time, and spirituality. While the Navajo population on our campus may not be large, their traditions, like the Navajo New Year, offer important lessons about living in harmony with the earth and respecting the cycles that guide our lives.

As we approach October 17 and the first full moon of the month, let’s take a moment to reflect on the meaning behind the Navajo New Year. Just as the Navajo people celebrate their harvest and prepare for winter ceremonies, we too can find inspiration in this season of transition. Whether through reflection, learning, or simply observing the beauty of the changing seasons, this is a time to honor the cycles of nature and the wisdom that comes with them.

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