Calgary Stampede

Calgary, Alberta is home to the Calgary Stampede, ten-day rodeo and agricultural exhibition held the second week of July each year that bills itself “the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”.

The first Stampede was held in 1912 and attracted almost 40.000 visitors its first year, far more than anyone expected. Attendance at the 2006 Stampede was a record-breaking 1.26 million people. Stampede organizers recommend that anyone who wants to attend the event make reservations well in advance.

The Stampede is famous for its chuck-wagon race, reminiscent of the races cowhands would have in celebration at the end of long trail rides. Other rodeo events include pro and novice bareback competitions, bull riding, saddle bronco riding, both pro and novice, barrel racing, wild pony racing, and several roping events.

Not even nightfall slows down the Stampede. When the sun sets, visitors enjoy the nightly Grandstand Show, a pageant that features Canadian performers and changes every year. Each evening, stages all over Calgary light up with performances from country music stars, comedians, dancers, and more.

The Stampede's Midway keeps growing, too, and now averages over 30 adult rides and 20 kids-only rides each year. Midway guests can test their skill in one of 20 or more games. When they get hungry, attendees can find refreshment at one of the dozens of food and beverage vendors—and that is just on the Midway!

Agricultural events have been part of the Stampede since it merged with the Calgary (Agricultural) Exhibition in 1932. Aggie Days is a family-friendly look at how milk gets from cow to table and wool from sheep to sweater plus other fun activities for kids.

One of the Stampede's best-known events is the Caravan Breakfast. Each morning of the Stampede, a group of dedicated volunteers puts out a free breakfast for Stampede attendees, a tradition going back over 80 years.