The Calgary Stampede
Beccy Miller
The Calgary Stampede is known in North America as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, and it's not hard to see why. Over 100 years old, it brings the Wild Western city of Calgary alive every year and celebrates the authentic culture of the Old West. The stalls, events, crowds and energy all make the Stampede a wonderful experience every July.
Cowboys & Girls
The most popular event is the Calgary rodeo. Enjoy two and a half hours of exciting action watching the world's best rodeo athletes as they compete head-to-head in six major events for a possible two million dollar prize. The atmosphere at the rodeo is incredible, watch the toughest cowboys and cowgirls and livestock as they fight it out in bareback riding, bull riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc, steer wrestling and tie-down roping. The Chuckwagon races are also a huge draw - over nine nightly heats, 27 Chuckwagon drivers with their outriders and horse compete to be crowned champion.
Tasty Treats
Head over to the Stampede park and you can indulge in some of the tastiest treats around. Deep-fried cookie dough, fried pickle pizza, poutine burger and red velvet mini doughnuts are some of the specialities you can try - you’ll find Stetson-wearing hosts dishing out free pancake breakfasts too - drenched in maple syrup, they’re the epitome of Canadian hospitality. This is one of the best Stampede traditions and many different venues across the city will offer free pancakes too during the event.
Live Music
Nashville North hosts some of the great country music stars. For over 18's only, it promises the best country music concerts, perfect for toe-tapping and line dancing. Over at The Coca-Cola Arena, local, national and international performers play a mix of rock, pop and alternative music, all for free.
The First Nation Tribes of Canada
At Elbow River Camp, local tribes host 26 Tipi's, with local artisans selling jewellery, art, bannock and other traditional items. You can watch demonstrations of crafts and join in as they teach traditional skills and dance. The First Nations have been involved with the stampede from it's official inception in 1918 and the village is always a highlight of the event.
Agricultural Showcase
The demonstrations and hands-on experiences offer insight into the Canadian West’s rich agricultural heritage. Interact with the animals on Nutrien Barn Tours, in the Draft Horse Town or in the Horse Haven. Make friends with ducklings in the Country Critters section or learn how the pioneers lived in the Heritage Cabin. Over in the Dog Bowl, see canine stars complete a series of Crufts style agility challenges, a real family favourite.
Bell Adrenaline Ranch
Is motocross the modern-day rodeo? The Light It Up show certainly provides the same sort of jaw-dropping feats you'd find over in the main arena. Watch unbelievable motorbike stunts from some of the best athletes in the business - huge jumps, massive flips and stunts to leave you breathless.
Heading to the stampede for the first time? Here are some top tips to help you get the most out of your visit.
1) Pack Well - The weather in Calgary in July can be changeable, so lots of layers, as well as a waterproof and umbrella, will come in handy.
2) Dress to Impress - A cowboy hat is included in the price, but part of the experience is to dress like a rancher. Luckily, plenty of stalls are on hand to help enhance your wardrobe.
3) Plan Ahead - Local trains to stampede park can get very busy, they run every ten minutes, but the event is huge, so make sure you leave plenty of time to ger to the events you want to see.
4) Take in the Attractions - Whilst the high-octane, high-adrenaline events are the big draw, there is so much more to see and do. Ride the Ferris Wheel, go to the demonstrations and really immerse yourself in the history of the Wild West.
Why not combine The Calgary Stampede with an Alaskan Cruise and a ride through the Rockies? The ultimate North American adventure.
