Music. Culture. Creativity. Community. One unforgettable night.
Canada Bridges and the National Music Centre are proud to present A Youth Explosion (AYE) 2026, featuring the Calgary debut of recording artist LOV (Lovina Tootoosis)!
Get ready for an evening of powerful live performances, incredible Indigenous youth talent, music, art, storytelling, food, and vendors coming together at Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre.
Whether you're coming for the music, the stories, the culture, or simply to experience something new, there's something for everyone at AYE.
This Year's Theme: Iiyiká’kimaat
Iiyiká’kimaat is a Blackfoot word with the English translation "try hard."
But what does it mean to try hard?
Maybe it's about pushing through when things get difficult.
Maybe it's about staying consistent when nobody is watching.
Maybe it's about showing up for yourself when doubt or adversity gets in the way.
Or maybe it's simply about showing up where it matters.
We're exploring what Iiyiká’kimaat means to each of us and what happens when we come together to try, learn, create, and grow.
Experience LOV Live at Studio Bell
An incredible voice. A powerful story. A performance you won't want to miss.
LOV (Lovina Tootoosis) takes the stage at A Youth Explosion 2026 for her Calgary debut!
Through music, storytelling, and conversation, LOV will share her artistry, experiences, and reflections on culture, identity, and her journey as an Indigenous recording artist.
Come for the music. Stay for the stories. Leave inspired.
Discover the Next Generation of Indigenous Talent
For 13 years, A Youth Explosion has created space for Indigenous youth and young adults to take the stage, share their experiences, and express themselves through music, dance, cultural arts, and storytelling.
This year, we're celebrating another incredible group of emerging Indigenous storytellers and performers, each bringing their own voice, creativity, and perspective to the stage.
Come Hungry. Experience Something Delicious.
There's more to AYE than incredible music and performances!
Enjoy an evening of delicious food, inspired by the flavours and ingredients of the land, thoughtfully prepared by Calgary's District Lounge.
Explore a selection of grazing boards, handcrafted canapés, and desserts featuring:
- Braised Bison Short Rib with truffle potato purée and morel glaze
- Glazed Elk Meatballs with Saskatoon berry–juniper glaze
- Maple-Cured Sockeye Salmon served on mini rösti potatoes
- Wild Mushroom Arancini with Canadian cheddar and crispy sage
- Alberta Beef Carpaccio and delicious vegetarian selections
- Sweet treats including tiramisu and pistachio crunch
Enjoy a refreshing Saskatoon berry lemonade while connecting with friends, discovering Indigenous artists, and taking in the atmosphere at Studio Bell.
For group bookings and Canada Bridges' valued partners, please contact Jacob Goldmann at jacob@canadabridges.com.