Seven big upgrades planned for Stampede Park over next 20 years

Stampede Park is getting ready to evolve as the Calgary Stampede and Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) begin work on a new 20-year plan.

Building on the original Calgary Stampede Master Plan that was established in 2004, the updated plan is set to transform the park into a year-round destination and support Calgary’s Culture and Entertainment District.

According to the Calgary Stampede, the updated plan is anchored around seven key zones, each designed to improve visitor experiences and support year-round programming.

One zone will focus on agriculture and animals, with a new facility being built to support the Stampede’s vision to become a global hub for agriculture. Another zone emphasizes heritage by strengthening connections with First Nations communities.

Other parts of the plan prioritize entertainment and visitors. A live events space near Scotia Place will combine commercial spaces, dining and an outdoor gathering spot for festivals and celebrations. It also includes a mixed-use gateway for visitor services like parking and rideshare, as well as updates to outdoor spaces, including the Stampede Midway. 

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Calgary Stampede

Some bigger developments outlined in the plan include a new, modernized multipurpose venue set to replace the Big Four Building to support growing music and event needs, as well as an expansion or renovation of the original grandstands and track.

The new master plan comes after the delivery of many projects outlined in the 2004 master plan, such as the BMO Centre Expansion, the Nutrien Western Event Centre, Sam Centre, Stampede Youth Campus, the greening and reclamation of Elbow River Park, the 17th Avenue Extension and Victoria Park/Stampede Station rebuild, Stampede Trail, as well as Scotia Place and the Autograph Collection Hotel, which are currently under construction. 

“For more than a century, the Calgary Stampede has been shaping experiences in our city. With the successful completion of the expanded BMO Centre in 2024 and exciting new projects underway, we have successfully fulfilled the 20-year vision established in 2004. Now, we are turning our attention to the next 20 years to ensure our master plan reflects the ambition and opportunity of our growing city,” said Joel Cowley, CEO of the Calgary Stampede, in a release. 

More details about the master plan, including funding strategies and phasing for the various elements, will be revealed as the plan progresses.

You can read more about the updated plan online.