Yei'bi'chi

After the first frost of the Fall has passed, these nine-day long ceremonies may begin. They generally start late in the evening and last through the small hours of the morning. There may be some dancing in the afternoon, depending on the group. They are healing ceremonies invoking the aid of the Holy Ones and the Talking God. The most common is the Beautyway. These events are funded by extended families. Guests show good manners if they contribute to the host, or bring food to share. Generally, all who come are fed. This is a cost in excess of a hefty fee to the singer. Sometimes Yei dancers, in masks, powdered bodies and dress, will come into a community and solicit donations. There is generally no vocalism beyond the "wu tu tu tu" of the character….Some notes jotted down after attending a ceremony may give you an idea of the atmosphere surrounding a Yei'bi'chi:

Last year Cissie and I attended a Yei bi chi in Bluff. We were invited by some Navajos. Prior to the ceremony a Navajo woman gave a lecture on the Navajo interpretation of the stars. Of course all their constellations are different and have a story to go with them. At the ceremony around a campfire the women danced first, followed by the men. It was a wonderful night and the stars were out in full force.