Calgary Stampede: Complete Guide for First-Timers! [2024]

Until very recently, I thought that Calgary Stampede was all cowboys, roping competitions, and agriculture. But my friend opened up my eyes. I grew up in Canada, but I didn't realize that the Calgary Stampede was a big party with festival vibes as well! 

Once I heard this I needed to know more...

I'm sure if you're not from here and are considering Canada as a travel destination, it mostly focuses on our great outdoors and wintery getaways, like Whistler. Maybe even the wondrous landscapes of Tofino or Victoria come to mind. But I'm going to dive into a different side of Canada's attractions.

So, if you're an adventurous traveler but want to veer away from strenuous activities like skiing or hiking, you've come to the right place! 

In this blog, I'll tell you all the exciting things that the Calgary Stampede offers and how you can join in on the fun—without breaking a sweat. By the end of it you won't believe you've been missing out. I'm talking about rides, fireworks, concerts, rodeos and more!

Doesn't that sound like the perfect mix of thrills and entertainment?

Discover everything you need to know in my complete guide to the Calgary Stampede. It's coming up soon so you'll want to be prepared for a great time...

What Is the Calgary Stampede?

As I mentioned, I didn't even know the answer to this question until recently. I just had a vague idea of it.

But now I've done all the research and can safely say it's one of the THE events in Canada. Every July, huge crowds gathers in Calgary to join this rodeo, exhibition, and festival that happens over 10 days.

There are live performances, trade shows, exhibits, and competitions. What surprised me most is that even people who aren't into agriculture or western events come far and wide to party it up! Of course, the rodeo is still a huge highlight of the event. 

In fact, the rodeo is one of the largest in the world, and over 1 million visitors flock to the Calgary Stampede every year!

Despite being hosted in Canada, the event actually began thanks to an American named Guy Weadick. Started in the 1800s, the Calgary Stampede was a huge success from the get-go. Mr. Weadick visited the city and thought Calgary would be a great place to hold a big rodeo—he was definitely right!

Another interesting fact is that the stampede gained true momentum after World War I. And it's now become the highlight of Calgary's summer.

When Is the Calgary Stampede 2024?

The 2024 Calgary Stampede is happening from July 5th to July 14th.

Generally, the venue is open from 11 AM until midnight, so there's plenty of time to explore. You'll need to check the schedule to catch the times of specific events within the stampede.

You can also stay on top of updates by checking out the Calgary Stampede's daily schedule page.

Where Is the Calgary Stampede Held?

The Calgary Stampede is always held at the Stampede Park. This is a permanent structure that makes setting up the yearly event easier for the organizers. There's a casino, the Grandstand, an exhibition area, and more within the complex.

Events at the Calgary Stampede

Now that the stampede has piqued your interest, you might be wondering what events you'll want to visit.

Although I can't list out everything that's available at the stampede, I'll share some of the highlights that everyone loves when they visit the Calgary Stampede. Whether you're flying solo, going as a group, or visiting with family, there's something for everyone.

Calgary Stampede Powwow

Have you ever been to a powwow before? If not, you need to make this a stop during your visit to the Calgary Stampede!

This is a great competition that'll allow you to be awed by beautiful indigenous tradition. It's happening on July 12 and 13 in the Saddledome. Set aside time from 12pm to 6pm to watch it all, or even just drop in for a bit. It's worth it, especially since it's free with admission.

What can you expect? You'll be treated to dancing, singing, and other types of indigenous performances at the Saddledome. In previous years the Powwow took place at the Elbow River Camp venue.

Everyone is invited to celebrate different cultures and community!

Stampede Parade

The yearly event wouldn't be complete without the Stampede Parade. In fact, it's the thing that starts the whole things—at least symbolically.

You'll feel like happiness and excitement as marching bands, colorful floats, and majestic horses make their way to the Stampede Park.

Best yet? If you're going to the parade, I recommend going to the Stampede Park right after. It's a great place to go before the parade to relax and enjoy the day.

Music Performance & Evening Shows

There's shows and stages happening most of the day at the Calgary Stampede, but you should really set aside some time for some of the evening shows.

You'll see an evening show schedule on the stampede's website, sharing the performers every night that begin at 7:45 PM. There's often also fireworks displays, acrobatic performances, and delicious food as well!

Some of the performers this year include Pitbull, DJ Diesel aka Shaquille O'Neal, Cheat Codes and many more...

Calgary Stampede Rodeo

The star of the show! This is where you get to watch the best cowboys and cowgirls battle it down at the arena. Bull riding, saddle bronc, and a few more events comprised this exhilarating competition. 

Elbow River Camp

This is the place to go if you want to discover more about the culture of the indigenous people of Canada. Experience it for yourself at the Elbow River Camp.

Numerous teepees are dedicated to sharing the heritage of the Kainai, Piikani, Siksika, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut'ina Nation.

2024 Calgary Stampede Tickets

There are a variety of tickets available for the audience. It all depends on which events you're interested in. For example, the rodeo and the evening show each has a set of tickets that you can purchase on the day.

Gate prices will be announced closer to the event, but I can tell you tickets for general admissions last year:

• General Admission for ages 13-64: $23.00
• Seniors from age 65+: $15.00
• Child, age 7-12: $14.00
• Child under 7: Free

There are also usually packages like the Two Day Thrill Package and the Stampede Super Pass.

What Is Special About the Calgary Stampede?

Aside from all the fun that you'll have, being a part of the Calgary Stampede is a way of giving back to the community as well.

Every year, thousands of people and businesses benefit from the Calgary Stampede. It boosts tourism in Calgary, providing locals with job opportunities and generating higher income.

The festival also gives the youth of Calgary a chance to showcase their talent and improve their skills by taking part in the events. Among the programs that help empower the youth are The Young Canadians School of Performing Arts and the Calgary Stampede Showband.

It's also a great way to learn more about Canadian western and indigenous cultures. So if learning about different culture is important to you, then the Calgary Stampede will not disappoint.

The oh-so-famous pancake breakfast and barbecues served during the events are an absolute mouth-watering must! Now that's one tasty reason for you to consider joining the Calgary Stampede!

Saddle Up for Your Next Trip!

Now that you're probably frothing at the bit to join in next year's Calgary Stampede celebrations, it's time to start planning your trip with Pilot.