Calgary Stampede: The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth

A Visitor’s Guide to the Calgary Stampede: Rodeo, Events, and Western Heritage

The Calgary Stampede is one of Canada’s most iconic events, celebrated annually in Calgary, Alberta. Often referred to as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Stampede is a 10-day extravaganza that brings together rodeo competitions, agricultural exhibitions, live music, parades, and cultural celebrations. Attracting over a million visitors each year, the Calgary Stampede is a must-visit destination for those wanting to experience authentic Western culture and witness some of the best rodeo athletes in the world.

A Celebration of Western Heritage

Founded in 1912, the Calgary Stampede has grown into one of the largest and most famous rodeos in the world. It celebrates Alberta’s Western heritage and agricultural roots, showcasing the traditions of ranching, farming, and cowboy culture. The event includes world-class rodeo competitions, exciting midway rides, delicious fair food, and concerts by top musical performers, offering something for everyone.

What to See and Do at the Calgary Stampede

1. The Rodeo:
   • The rodeo is the heart of the Calgary Stampede, drawing the best cowboys and cowgirls from around the world to compete for over $2 million in prize money. The Stampede Rodeo is held every afternoon and features six major events:
     • Bareback Riding: Contestants ride wild horses without a saddle, holding on to nothing but a small handle. This thrilling event is a test of strength and balance.
     • Bull Riding: Perhaps the most exciting and dangerous event, riders attempt to stay on a bucking bull for eight seconds while the bull tries to throw them off.
     • Saddle Bronc Riding: In this classic rodeo event, riders must stay atop a bucking horse while gripping a special saddle. Riders are judged on their control and style.
     • Steer Wrestling: Also known as bulldogging, this event involves a cowboy chasing down a steer, jumping off his horse, and wrestling the steer to the ground.
     • Tie-Down Roping: Cowboys on horseback lasso a running calf, then dismount and tie its legs together as quickly as possible.
     • Barrel Racing: In this fast-paced event, cowgirls race their horses around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels in the fastest time possible.
   • The rodeo culminates in Showdown Sunday, known as Rodeo’s Richest Afternoon, where the top contestants from each event compete for large cash prizes.
2. Chuckwagon Races:
   • One of the most unique and thrilling events at the Calgary Stampede is the Chuckwagon Races, held every evening. This event, known as the Rangeland Derby, involves teams of horses pulling traditional chuckwagons around a dirt track at breakneck speeds. The races are fast, intense, and filled with Western drama, as each wagon team competes to be the fastest on the track.
   • The Evening Show, which follows the chuckwagon races, includes live music, fireworks, and spectacular performances, making it one of the must-see attractions of the Stampede.
3. Stampede Parade:
   • The Calgary Stampede Parade is the official kickoff to the Stampede and is one of the largest parades in North America. Held on the first Friday of the event, the parade features floats, marching bands, horseback riders, and cultural performances, all celebrating the spirit of the West.
   • Each year, a prominent Canadian figure is named Parade Marshal, leading the parade through downtown Calgary. The parade draws large crowds and is a festive start to the 10-day event.
4. Midway and Rides:
   • The Stampede Midway is a carnival lover’s dream, with exciting rides, classic games, and fair food. Visitors can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, bumper cars, Ferris wheels, and other rides, as well as try their luck at winning prizes in the midway games.
   • The midway also features delicious treats like corn dogs, funnel cakes, mini doughnuts, and deep-fried creations that are a staple of the Stampede experience.
5. Concerts and Live Music:
   • The Calgary Stampede is a major hub for live music, with performances happening throughout the grounds and at venues like the Stampede Grandstand, Nashville North, and Coca-Cola Stage.
   • The Stampede Grandstand Show features top musical acts, while Nashville North is a lively venue dedicated to country music, showcasing popular country stars and up-and-coming performers. The Coca-Cola Stage offers free concerts with a mix of Canadian and international rock, pop, and indie artists.
   • Past performers at the Calgary Stampede have included stars like Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, Keith Urban, and The Chainsmokers.
6. Agricultural Exhibits and Competitions:
   • The Stampede is deeply connected to agriculture, with exhibitions and competitions that highlight the region’s farming and ranching heritage. Visitors can explore exhibits on livestock, farming equipment, horse breeding, and more.
   • Agricultural competitions include events like sheep shearing, horse shows, and cattle exhibitions, where local farmers and ranchers showcase their animals and compete for awards.
   • Kids can visit the Nutrien Western Event Centre to learn about agriculture, interact with farm animals, and experience a bit of life on the farm through hands-on activities.
7. Western Culture and Heritage Exhibits:
   • The Calgary Stampede offers numerous exhibits dedicated to Western culture, Indigenous traditions, and Alberta’s pioneering past. The Western Oasis features art galleries, artisan markets, and wine tasting, providing a quieter retreat from the high-energy events.
   • Elbow River Camp is a significant part of the Stampede, where visitors can explore the traditions and cultures of Alberta’s Indigenous peoples. The camp includes traditional tipis, cultural performances, and demonstrations of Indigenous arts and crafts.
8. Family-Friendly Activities:
   • The Calgary Stampede is a family-friendly event, with plenty of activities designed for children of all ages. The Kids’ Midway offers rides for younger visitors, and Family Fun Night provides discounted admission and special entertainment.
   • Families can also visit the BMO Kids’ Zone, where kids can enjoy petting zoos, interactive exhibits, and daily shows featuring favorite characters from children’s TV shows.
9. Food at the Stampede:
   • The Calgary Stampede is known for its wild and adventurous food scene. From deep-fried Oreos to flaming hot Cheetos corn dogs, the midway offers an array of unique and over-the-top culinary creations.
   • Traditional Western fare is also available, with local favorites like Alberta beef, BBQ ribs, and pancakes. Visitors can attend free pancake breakfasts hosted throughout the city during Stampede week.

How to Get There

The Calgary Stampede is located at Stampede Park, just southeast of downtown Calgary, and is easily accessible by public transportation and car.

• Address: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2W1
• Public Transport: The venue is accessible via the Calgary CTrain (LRT) on the Red and Blue lines, with the Stampede Station and Victoria Park/Stampede Station located at the entrance to the grounds.
• Parking: There is paid parking available at Stampede Park, but parking can be limited during major events. Using public transit is highly recommended during the Stampede.

Visiting Hours and Admission

The Calgary Stampede runs for 10 days every July. Hours vary depending on the day and event, but most events take place between 9 a.m. and midnight. Tickets can be purchased for individual events, such as the rodeo or concerts, or visitors can buy a general admission pass for access to the grounds.

• Hours: Open daily during the 10-day event, typically from 9 a.m. to midnight.
• Admission: General admission tickets and individual event tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.
• Official Website: https://www.calgarystampede.com/

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Calgary Stampede is during the peak days of the event, typically on Showdown Sunday for the rodeo finals or during the Chuckwagon Races and Evening Show. The Stampede Parade is a must-see on the first Friday, and the Evening Grandstand Show and fireworks are highlights every night.

A Must-Experience for Western Culture Lovers

Whether you’re watching the thrilling rodeo, enjoying live music, or exploring the agricultural exhibits, the Calgary Stampede offers a unique blend of entertainment and cultural heritage. With its exciting events, family-friendly activities, and deep connection to Western traditions, the Calgary Stampede truly lives up to its title as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.”