Pathways: Horizons in Unison - Across Generations

 Shabnam Merali and ensemble performing in the Amphitheatre

Pathways: Horizons in Unison - Across Generations will showcase music, dance, art, movement, scent and food from Islamic world cultures, and will have a special focus on seniors as the heart of our families and communities. Designed for families of all ages and cultures to enjoy.

  • International concert with Shabnam Merali and Ensemble (Sufi, ghazals, light classical)
  • Chair yoga for seniors and their families (free; registration required)
  • Special panel discussion: Seniors at the Heart of our Families and Communities
  • Cultural snack boxes, chai and sweets (order in advance)
  • Arabic calligraphy
  • Henna (mehndi)
  • Oudh - smell the rich fragrance and learn the history of this resinous wood that has been used for generations in the Arabic world
  • Live painting demo during concert
  • Cultural costumes - show off your culture by wearing your traditional festive attire!

The Pathways Series of events creates routes to understanding between cultures through art, music, food, performance, workshops and talking together, in the beautiful setting of the University of Alberta Botanic Garden. 

The Pathways Series is supported by the Government of Alberta.

Government of Alberta Logo

Pathways: Horizons in Unison - Across Generations
Aga Khan Garden
May 23, 2026, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

  • Activities and concert are free with paid general admission (except food boxes).
  • Garden Members get free admission to this event.
  • Admission in advance online (recommended) or at the gate.

 

Make your day delicious with a cultural snack box.

Limber up with a gentle yoga session. Free with admission; advance registration required.

EVENT ITINERARY - plan your day!

ONGOING ACTIVITIES
starting at 1 p.m.

  • Arabic calligraphy - try this gracious artform
  • Henna (mehndi) - get your hand beautifully painted
  • Oudh - smell the rich fragrance and learn the history of this resinous wood that has been cherished for generations in the Arabic world

Free with admission. While supplies last.

CULTURAL SNACK BOXES
By Chapelle Kitchen

  • Kefta bun OR (vegetarian) falafel bun
  • Fresh spring rolls (vegetarian) with dipping sauce
  • Homemade hummus, pita & fresh vegetables for dipping
    Stuffed grape leaves (vegetarian)
  • Assorted mini cake squares

Individual box: $15 plus tax
Box for two: $26 plus tax
Box for four: $50 plus tax

DESSERT ADD-ONS 

  • Chai & Baklava: $6.25/person or $11.25 for two
  • Chai only: $2.25 per person

Must be ordered in advance. 


CHAIR YOGA

Two sessions: 1-1:30 p.m. and 3:00-3:30 p.m.

Take a nourishing breath and enjoy a practice under the open sky with a rejuvenating 30-minute yoga session, led by yoga, fitness and mindful movement instructor Ferah Karmali. Ferah creates inclusive, empowering experiences for students of all levels and is known for blending strength, breath, and intention—encouraging her participants to build both physical resilience and inner calm. Her yoga classes are thoughtfully designed to leave participants feeling safe, balanced, connected and transformed.

While these sessions are designed primarily for adults, including seniors, older children who are interested in participating are welcome, but must remain under direct supervision and be accompanied by their parent or guardian. 

Free with general admission. Advance registration required.

 

PANEL: Seniors at the Heart of our Communities

1:30-2:45 p.m. in the Diwan

Don't miss this panel of special guests representing Indigenous, Islamic world, Japanese and Latin American communities who will share their experiences of aging from their unique cultural perspectives. What role do seniors play in our communities? What is the special relationship between elders and youth?

CONCERT with Shabnam Merali and Ensemble

4-6 p.m. in the Amphitheatre

Shabnam Merali smiling while performing at night in the Amphitheatre
Shabnam Merali and Ensemble

 

This immersive and enriching concert celebrates the timeless beauty of Sufi and Ghazal music. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Aga Khan Garden, the concert will take audiences on a transcendent journey.

At the heart of the performance is Shabnam Merali, a master of Sufi music whose soul-stirring voice has moved audiences around the world for over two decades. She’ll be joined by an ensemble of exceptional musicians, each bringing their own artistry and depth to the performance. Together, they promise not just a concert, but a journey into the heart of Sufi mysticism: a night of poetry, rhythm and melodies that will echo long after the final note fades.

Free with general admission. Advance booking recommended.

 

Important to Know

  • This outdoor event runs rain or shine. Please make sure you are dressed for the weather. There are no refunds. However, if there is a severe weather warning issued by Environment Canada, the Garden may cancel or postpone the event, in which case refunds will be issued.
  • Concert seating is on a first come first serve basis; we encourage you to come early to get a good spot, and bring your folding chair. 
  • Event runs from 1 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. You can enjoy the Garden until 9 p.m.
  • In addition to the pre-ordered cultural snack boxes, food and beverages are also available a la carte at Cafe al Fresco including a selection of fresh-made sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, ice cream and baked goods along with coffee, cold beverages, wine and beer.