All the days you can get onto the Calgary Stampede grounds for free this year

Enjoying a full day at the Calgary Stampede can get a bit pricey, but visitors will have a couple of chances to access the grounds for free this year.

From community days to special promotions, we’ve rounded up all the times you can get onto the grounds for free at the 2026 Calgary Stampede. 

Parade to Park

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Following the annual Stampede Parade, visitors can head right over to Stampede Park to enjoy free admission,

When: Friday, July 3, 2026; Free admission from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tim Hortons Family Day

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The first Sunday of Stampede marks Family Day, where you can bring the whole family down for some free fun, including activities, entertainment, and a pancake breakfast. Visitors can enjoy a free pancake breakfast in the GMC Stadium Courtyard and a variety show from 8 to 10 a.m. 

When: Sunday, July 5, 2026; Free admission until 11 a.m.

TC Energy Community Day

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Visitors can take advantage of free admission and a special programming celebration of Community Day at the Stampede. Additional free entry is available all day for seniors above 65, and military veterans can also enjoy free coffee and donuts in the BMO Plaza until 11 a.m.

When: Tuesday, July 7, 2026; Free admission from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

BMO Kids’ Day

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Families are invited to bring their little ones to the Calgary Stampede for a morning of free food and entertainment as part of BMO Kids’ Day. A free breakfast will be served in the GMC Stadium Courtyard from 8 to 10 a.m., alongside a free variety show running at the same time inside GMC Stadium. 

When: Wednesday, July 8, 2026; Free entry all day for kids 12 and under, and free entry for everyone until 11 a.m.

If you’re wondering what exactly you can get with a ticket to the Stampede, we dove into everything that’s included with just admission to the grounds.