Barbecue - A Cherished Tradition

Unleash your appetite and let your senses go wild.

Indulge is the word.

Delight your palate at the 113th Northern Navajo Fair Community Barbecue.

The free barbecue kicks off the Northern Navajo Fair at the Navajo Nation Shopping Center Parking lot in Shiprock, New Mexico.

The opening event will be held on Thursday, October 1, 2026 beginning at 3 p.m.

Guest speakers from participating businesses and organizations will be there to offer greetings and welcome attendees. Entertainment will also be provided. KNDN Radio will be at the site to broadcast the event.

Barbecue Event Coordinator Terry J. Dayish, stated, “The barbecue has become a standing tradition that brings together businesses, organizations and community members in a spirit of fellowship and celebration.”

The free barbecue is a brainchild of Arizona Public Service (APS), which began in the mid 1990s as a modest effort of APS employees serving hamburger patties.

Today, it has grown into a feast for the eyes serving barbecue beef, pork and savory side dishes to more than 3,500 community members.

The organizers of the event work with the Indian Health Service Division of Environmental health Services to ensure food safety and public health standards.

It also entails goods and services that are provided by a host of vendors and businesses from throughout the Four Corners region.

The cherished event exemplifies a shared commitment to community service and partnerships.

Dayish stated, “As the community gathers once again to share a meal, reconnect with friends and family, and celebrate the beginning of the Shiprock Fair (Now called the Northern Navajo Fair), the organizers look forward to building upon a tradition that has united Shiprock for generations.”

The concerted event exemplifies the power of partnerships and volunteerism.

Dayish noted, “Through the dedication of local organizations and businesses, the event continues to provide a welcoming atmosphere for families and visitors while honoring the enduring traditions of the Shiprock Fair (Northern Navajo Fair).

Dayish added, “It is rewarding to see how this event has grown over the years from a small volunteer effort into a community-wide gathering that serves thousands of people.”

Some of the major businesses who will make this year’s free community barbecue possible include: Arizona Public Service; Riley Industrial Services; Navajo Transitional Energy Company; On3 Dyno & Performance; Navajo Engineering Construction Authority; FHI Plant Services; Public Service of New Mexico; and Acorn Products.

Frederick H. White, Northern Navajo Fair Manager stated, “On behalf of the Northern Navajo Fair, I would like to say thank you to all the sponsors of this year’s free community barbecue. We value your commitment and support to make this a continued success to honor and celebrate the unique history of the Navajo people. An event of this caliber truly takes a concerted effort. And this event exemplifies what partnerships can do. We look forward to continuing this partnership.”