Registration open for inaugural Cultural Forum

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on March 6, 2026.

Online registration opens today for the inaugural Cultural Forum held by the city at the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre for members of the community with a passion for arts.

The Cultural Forum runs Mar. 23 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and will feature six different sessions providing participants with practical tools to help shape collaborative solutions that strengthen cultural programs across the city.

The sessions include a welcome and opening reflection led by the Indigenous collective Matriarch Movement from 9 to 9:30 a.m.

Following the welcome, Aaron Nelson, acting director of community development, will lead a panel discussing the arts, heritage and entertainment plan in a presentation scheduled from 9:30-10:45 a.m.

A guided walking tour will then be held from 11 a.m. to noon facilitated by Tourism Medicine Hat, highlighting local cafes, murals and creative spaces.

The forum continues in the afternoon with a presentation by Linda Hoang, workshop and social media strategist and consultant, on marketing fundamentals for artists, cultural workers and organizations.

The City of Medicine Hat will then host a collaborative outreach and event presentation that will highlight important community calendar dates, event co-ordination, communication platforms and information sharing.

The Collaborative World Cafe style session will be hosted by Safira Lachapelle, public participation specialist, and Ashley Howes, community inclusion co-ordinator, from 3-4 p.m.

The forum will conclude with a half-hour session for networking and conversation to share ideas, 4-4:30 p.m.

“The Cultural Forum is a space for meaningful dialogue – an opportunity to hear what’s succeeding, uncover what’s needed and shape our path forward together,” said Nelson. “Gathering voices in one place helps us strengthen connections, build shared perspectives and deepen our collective commitment to a stronger, more unified cultural landscape.”

A link for online registration can be on the city’s website.

There will be refreshments served at the forum but no lunch will be provided.

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