Are you wondering what to do this weekend in Edmonton? Luckily for you, we’ve got a list of some exciting events for you to explore.
1) Flying Canoë Volant | Until Mar. 5
Your inner voyageur awaits! Flying Canoë Volant is back this winter for a creative and interactive cultural celebration of French Canadian, First Nations, and Métis traditions and local history. The festival is inspired by the legend of The Flying Canoë which shares French-Canadian and Indigenous origins. You can take part in the Canadian Triathlon that features challenges like the two-person bucksaw, axe throwing, and—of course—racing a canoe down a ski hill. Other events include musical performances, storytelling, dancing, and talks. If you thought it couldn’t get any better, you will get to have these experiences in the beautiful Mill Creek Ravine, which makes for the perfect recipe for a long (and fun) winter’s night. Online registration is required, but don’t worry, it’s free!
2) SkirtsAFire Festival | Until Mar. 13
Diversity. Inclusivity. Empowerment. These are keywords at the heart of the SkirtsAFire Festival. Since 2012, SkitsAFire has been Edmonton’s only theatre and multidisciplinary arts organization featuring women and non-binary artists. The festival presents insightful, powerful, and engaging stories through spoken word, art, dance, music, comedy, and more. Ultimately, the festival is a reflection of the diversity of the arts community in Alberta—SkirtsAfire is proud to represent artists from all backgrounds. The most notable event at the festival is the world premiere of Ayita by Teneil Whiskeyjack. Ayita is a modern-day creation story that invites audiences to see Indigenous realities through a mix of theatre and contemporary Indigenous dance. Ultimately, it shares a powerful journey of sovereignty, healing, and liberation. You can also check out the events calendar to see what other shows and events are on each day. Festival passes and tickets for individual events are available online.
3) Edmonton Travel Show | Mar. 5
The Edmonton Travel show is back in Edmonton this weekend! On Saturday, from 11 am to 5 pm, the Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel will be hosting travel representatives from all over the world. Now is the time to channel your inner adventurer! You’ll get the chance to connect one-on-one with airlines, hotels, cruises, and tour operators. Of course, there will be exclusive show specials and prize giveaways (hint: maybe something for your next getaway). You are encouraged to get your free general admission tickets online to guarantee your entry to the show. VIP passes are also an option and these include premium parking, swag giveaways, exclusive prizes and workshop access. Even better, airport parking will be free with all tickets.
4) “Perk Up Pianist!” Starring Sarah Hagen | Mar. 4
Canadian pianist Sarah Hagen has performed all over North America and Europe. This weekend, she’s coming to Edmonton! This talented artist was awarded Ontario Contact’s Artist of the Year in 2017 and British Columbia Touring Council’s Artist of the Year in 2015. Visionary and idealist describe her best. She creates performances that involve different mediums: photography, dance, music, and spoken word. Perk Up, Pianist! is a one-woman musical comedy show that has toured to multiple Canadian fringe festivals. The show will take you into the depths of the world of a touring classical musician. It will also shed light on how to stay optimistic in the middle of ridiculous challenges. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office.
5) All Because I’m A Woman | Mar. 4-5
Are you a country fan? This weekend, Edmonton is hosting a group of talented artists such as Kate Blechinger, Mo Lefever, and Jameela McNeil, among many, as they perform iconic country tunes at the Citadel Theatre. Do Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Brandi Carlile, and Yola ring a bell? How about Dolly Parton? You’ll get to take in the best of the iconic women of country music from yesterday and today. All you have to do is bring your best head bop and foot tap (and maybe buy a ticket online too).
6) Bboyizm: In My Body | Mar. 4-5
“It’s said that the bravest thing a dancer can do is grow old.” Join In My Body this weekend at the Timms Centre for the Arts as you discover the evolution of self and the effects of aging on street dancers. One of Canada’s most renowned street dancers and choreographers, Crazy Smooth, gathers an intergenerational and international group of dancers and creatives on stage. Together, they tell the story of b-boy/b-girl dancers and hip-hop culture: the façade of confidence and invincibility during dance battles has created one of the most physically demanding (and visually impressive) dance genres to exist.
7) Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne | Mar. 4
If you’re a fan of blues music, then Kenny “Blue Boss” Wayne is here for you. He was inducted into the Boogie Woogie Piano Hall of Fame in Cincinnati in 2017 and is a Juno Award and Maple Blues Award winner. Wayne’s musical journey began with the sounds of gospel music during his childhood. Since then, Wayne discovered the glorious notes of jazz, Latin music, R&B, and soul. Originally from America, Wayne credits Canada with helping him become the artist he is today. This Friday, Wayne will be at the Yardbird Suite, ready to move you with his skillful piano playing and soulful vocals. Tickets are available online with the option to see the show live in person or virtually.
