For all the debauchery and hooliganism that goes into a successful Stampede, there’s also a fair amount of events that can be fun for the whole family. So saddle up the youngsters: here are 15 family-friendly events at this year’s Calgary Stampede.
The parade
Man, is there a lot of stuff in this parade. Containing 30 marching bands, 40 floats, 750 horses and 4,000 people, it’s sure to be a spectacle.
The Cattle Trail
Speaking of education, the Cattle Trail is an interactive exhibit about the beef industry. From calf to cooking, learn where your burgers come from.
The rodeo
The world’s richest tournament rodeo is back. What better way to teach your kids an appreciation for the raw power of a bronco, or the true grit of a real life cowboy?
Eating everything in sight
Mini donuts, burgers, and an absurd amount of foods on a stick make the Stampede one heck of a place to indulge yourself in the finest feasts of the land.
Buckaroos
“The place to be for kids 12 years of age and under” — Buckaroos is basically a place to kick back and doze for a few minutes while your youngsters take in performances from Mike the Knight, Little Charmers, Angelina Ballerina, and more.
Character meet and greet
Spongebob, Dora the Explorer, Bob the Builder, and more will be onsite to visit with your little ones (and you, if you want your questions
The Dog Bowl
Not what it sounds like. Rescue dogs of all shapes and sizes will shock and amaze you with “perfected agility, high-flying stunts, and sheer athleticism.” Think Superdogs, but more Stampede-y.
The Peking Acrobats
Take in a performance of some of China’s best tumblers, contortionists, and gymnasts at the Big Four building.
Interpretive program
Interpreters will be on hand at the Indian Village to give visitors a glimpse into the heritage and culture therein. Interesting and educational!
Horse Haven
Have a horse nut with you? They’ll be right at home at Horse Haven, where breeders do presentations, demonstrations, and give talks on the breeds they love.
Pedal tractor pull
Kids aged 4-12 can compete in this feat of strength, pulling a tractor with a miniature John Deere.
High divers
Watch in nervous horror as expert divers leap from insane heights into tiny pools of water. Bugs Bunny ain’t got nothing on these folks.
Barn tours
Learn about all the animals inside those big red boxes from friendly, knowledgeable experts.
Kid’s Chuck Challenge
At a new location this year, find the Kid’s Chuck challenge across from The Dog Bowl. At the sound of the klaxon, teams of young cowboys and cowgirls between 5 and 10 years old will compete as chuckwagon drivers.
Weadickville
This recreation of a Calgary streetscape from a century ago boasts food at discount prices and the “best treats on the midway.”
Blacksmith Classic
Two teams each from Canada, the US, and Europe compete in various smithy challenges.
Daily Hive Calgary is a proud media sponsor of the Calgary Stampede
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