Edmonton's Cultural Weekend: Dreamspeakers Film Fest, Aysanabee and AHI Concert, Orchid Fair
Edmonton is set to host a diverse array of cultural events this weekend, offering residents and visitors a chance to immerse themselves in film, music, and nature. From the Dreamspeakers International Film Festival to a collaborative concert by acclaimed musicians Aysanabee and AHI, and the annual Orchid Fair, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Dreamspeakers International Film Festival: A Celebration of Indigenous Stories
The 2026 Dreamspeakers International Film Festival kicks off on Wednesday, running under the theme "Itêh kâpêh isi kîwêmakahkihk acimôwinah The place where stories come home." This year's festival features an impressive lineup of 30 shorts, features, documentaries, and animations, with most in-person screenings taking place at Landmark in City Centre.
A highlight of the opening night is a free screening of Eva Thomas' crime thriller Nika & Madison at 6:45 p.m. at Metro Cinema, located at 8712 109 St. The festival also includes virtual offerings, activities at Co*Lab on 9641 102A Ave., and an artisan market at City Centre.
Notable films include Bring Them Home, a Blackfoot buffalo preservation documentary narrated by Lily Gladstone, screening at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, and Songs of Kamui, an Ainu film, showing at 4:30 p.m. on April 17. For the full schedule, visit dreamspeakers.org.
Details: The festival runs from Wednesday to April 19 at Landmark City Centre, 10200 102 Ave. Tickets are priced at $11.53 per screening, with a general pass at $50 and a VIP pass at $75, available online.
Aysanabee and AHI: An Intimate Musical Collaboration
In a smart and exciting collaboration, two of Canada's most talented singer-songwriters, Aysanabee and AHI, will share the stage for a concert that promises to feel like an intimate folk festival session. Aysanabee recently won two Juno Awards in Hamilton in the alternative and Indigenous categories, while AHI has just returned from performing at the prestigious South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas.
Audiences can expect not only beautiful songs but also engaging stories between performances, as both artists are known for their heartfelt storytelling. For those unfamiliar with the names, Aysanabee is pronounced "ace in abbey" and AHI as "eye"—handy tips for when you're telling friends about the show.
Orchid Fair: A Blooming Botanical Experience
Rounding out the weekend's events is the annual Orchid Fair, a must-visit for gardening enthusiasts and nature lovers. This fair showcases a stunning variety of orchids, offering attendees a chance to admire these delicate flowers, learn about orchid care, and even purchase plants to take home. It's a perfect opportunity to add a touch of botanical beauty to your spring season.
With so many enriching activities on offer, Edmonton proves itself as a hub for cultural and artistic expression. Whether you're a film buff, music aficionado, or plant lover, this weekend has something special in store.
