Here's how you can get into the Calgary Stampede for FREE this year

There’s nothing quite like a day at the Stampede, but all those delicious foods, cold beverages, and exciting games can really put a drain on the ol’ bank account.

…A situation that is only made worse by the initial $18 you need to spend to even get through the gates!

See also

• This year's Calgary Stampede will feature a 140-foot high zipline
• All the FREE pancake breakfasts during the Calgary Stampede 2018
• All the pancake breakfasts during the Calgary Stampede 2018

Thankfully, The Greatest Outdoor Show On Earth is giving those of us with empty pockets a bit of a break this year, as admission to the Calgary Stampede on Cenovus Family Day will be completely free.

Not only that, but a free pancake breakfast will also be supplied, saving you even more cash that can (and, let’s face it, will) be spent elsewhere throughout the day.

“There isn’t a better way to celebrate family than with free admission to Stampede Park and a free pancake breakfast,” said Kyle Corner, the Manager of Entertainment and Programming at the Calgary Stampede, in a release.

“We invite the community to come down and enjoy all of the fun on the Midway, which will be open earlier than usual.”

The free admission will be available between 8 and 11 am on Sunday, July 8, along with a free pancake breakfast for the first 25,000 guests.

The BMO Centre and Stampede Market will both be opened earlier than usual at 9 am on that Sunday, and anyone looking to catch a show will be able to check out the Monster Energy Compound and the Canine Stars show, as they both will be putting on early morning performances.

If you’re busy that day, you can also get into the Stampede for free on Friday, July 6 if you get to the gates between 11 am and 1:30 pm — but expect a line, as it is the opening day of the festivities.

Calgary Stampede Cenovus Family Day free admission 2018

When: Sunday, July 8, 2018

Time: Between 8 and 11 am

Where: Stampede Grounds – 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary

Admission: Free!