Keshjee' (Navajo Shoe Game)

The Navajo Shoe Game, or Késhjéé, is a winter social guessing game steeped in tradition. It recounts the legendary contest between day and night animals to determine whether the world should remain in constant daylight or darkness. Today, the game brings people together in a lively competition to use strategy and tactics in guessing the location of a hidden ball inside a shoe or moccasin.

Kevin Belin, a respected Navajo Language teacher at Navajo Prep with over a decade of experience, will lead the workshop, sharing the game’s history, rules, strategies, and cultural significance. Participants will then have the opportunity to put their knowledge into practice during the game on Friday evening.

The event is family-friendly, free to attend, and open to all, whether you want to play or just observe. Food and refreshments are provided on both nights. Those wishing to play are encouraged to participate in both the workshop and the game.

The San Juan College (SJC) Native American Center will host the Navajo Shoe Game workshop on Thursday, January 30th and the Navajo Shoe Game on Friday, January 31st. Both events run from 6:00-9:00pm and will take place in the SJC Suns Lounge (located above Mary’s Kitchen). For more information, please contact the Native American Center at (505) 566-3311 or find them on Facebook.