The ultimate first-timer's guide to the Calgary Stampede
The big day is nearly here. All over the city, Calgarians are dusting off their cowboy boots and preparing for the greatest outdoor show on earth. But what if this is your first Calgary Stampede?
Whether you’re new to the city or just haven’t gotten around to going, your first Stampede experience can be a little overwhelming without some guidance. On top of the big ticket attractions like The Rodeo or Grandstand Show happening daily, there’s so much to do and see. If it’s your first time, you might be wondering: where do I even start?
Fear not, because we’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you navigate this 10-day Western extravaganza. Here is everything you need to know about attending your very first Calgary Stampede this year from July 4 to 13.
Start your day with a pancake breakfast
View this post on Instagram
You can’t go wrong with a free pancake breakfast. Besides, it’s a Stampede tradition.
These are a great way to network, energize for the day, or have an excellent breakfast with the family. You’ll find pancake breakfasts all over the city every year. Each one offers something unique, from bacon pancakes to bouncy castles.
Explore the tents
View this post on Instagram
If you’re looking for a party, the tents are where it’s at. They are 18+ and feature live music, bars, beer tubs, and much more. Each tent is entirely different, but always embraces the cowboy spirit.
Many of these tents have a capacity of over 2,000 people and still have lines down the block to get in. You’ll find them all over the city, but plan ahead if you’re looking for a specific type of activity or music genre. Of course, make sure to also wear your finest Western get-up.
Make sure you attend a concert
View this post on Instagram
One of the best parts about Stampede is that it’s also a 10-day music festival featuring artists from every genre.
There are shows at nearly every tent as well as venues like The Big 4 and the Saddledome, located on the Stampede grounds. Most concerts are ticketed, but the Coca-Cola Stage on the grounds is free with admission, hosting different popular shows every night.
Take a ride or play a game
View this post on Instagram
You can’t go wrong with the fair rides at the Midway.
From the impressive Superwheel to games with flashy prizes, ride and game coupons are purchased at N.A.M.E. kiosks throughout the Midway, and they cost less than you think. However, you might want to try the rides before you try the food, just in case.
Grab a drink
View this post on Instagram
Calgary has an incredible bar and restaurant scene, and during the Calgary Stampede, you can get the party started as early as 8 a.m. — even if you’re off the grounds.
Early liquor service hours have been approved to allow bars, restaurants, taprooms and convention centres within the City of Calgary to serve booze as early as 8 a.m. during Stampede from July 4 to 13. Breakfast beer, anyone?
Wander the fairgrounds
View this post on Instagram
While the Stampede certainly has a reputation for taking over the city, you don’t have to travel far to have a good time.
There’s so much to see within the Stampede grounds, like stunt shows at the Monster Energy compound, or adorable dogs performing tricks at The Dog Bowl. The Western Oasis within BMO offers an air-conditioned wine garden area along with a gallery featuring original works from talented artists.
The best part is that all of this is included with your standard Stampede grounds admission.
Taste test the strangest Midway foods
View this post on Instagram
You can expect the usual gamut of fair food at Stampede, like corn dogs, burgers, pizza, and mini-donuts. Although the Calgary Stampede midway never fails to provide some weird food combos and the selection is different every year.
Boldly go where you (most likely) haven’t gone before with options like deep-fried pickle Oreos, smoked tongue on a stick, and dill pickle mini donuts — to name only a few!
Don’t miss the fireworks
View this post on Instagram
Nothing captures the spirit of a summer festival like a grand fireworks finale. You also have no excuse to miss them, because they happen every single night!
While the best view will be at the Grandstand show, we understand those tickets can cost a pretty penny. The nice thing is that you can find great views of the Stampede sky from all over Calgary, whether you’re at the Stampede grounds or elsewhere downtown.
Do you feel prepared for your first Calgary Stampede? Let us know which activities you tried and which were your favourite in the comments.