Here's how you can save money at this year's Calgary Stampede

Jul 6 2021, 10:03 pm

We love the Calgary Stampede, but our wallets? Not so much.

The 10-day event can get expensive, especially if you plan on attending more than once, eating all your meals there, or attending a separately ticketed event like the rodeo.

Luckily, there are a few ways you can save some cash while still enjoying Stampede to the fullest. From discounted admission to rides packages, there are options available to help you live your best ‘Pede life without breaking the bank.

Here’s how you can make your Calgary Stampede experience a little more budget-friendly this year.

Sneak-a-Peek

Stampede is always noted as a 10-day event, but Sneak-a-Peek adds a little bonus half-day. On the Thursday evening prior to Friday’s official kickoff, Stampede Park opens its gates at 5 pm, offering up nearly all of the event’s regular attractions at half the price.

On Thursday, July 8, head to Stampede Park and be among the first to see what Stampede 2021 is all about. The evening runs from 5 pm until midnight, and features live music, iconic attractions, and weird and wonderful midway food. Admission is just $9 (compared to the usual $20), or free for kids six and under.

Cenovus Energy Family Day 2021

On the first official day of the event, the Stampede is hosting Cenovus Energy Family Day. A limited number of admissions are being offered for free on Friday, July 3, and, as if that’s not exciting enough, each admission includes one of the tastiest traditions of Stampede: a pancake breakfast.

The Park opens at 10 am on Friday, and the grills will be cooking! As only a limited number of free admissions and pancake breakfasts are being offered, the Calgary Stampede advises attendees to pre-book their tickets online.

Community Day 2021

Halfway through Stampede Week, organizers want to invite the community to join them in celebrating and honouring the incredible spirit that fuels the city.

On Wednesday, July 14, the Park gates will open at 9 am for Community Day, to give you a little extra time to Stampede, and kids get in free all day. There will also be a limited number of pancake breakfasts available, and the Stampede encourages guests to pre-book to ensure availability.

Frontline workers offer

From July 9 to 13, the Calgary Stampede is showing their appreciation for frontline and essential workers by offering free admission for them and three guests. Occupations include but are not limited to: First Responders, Healthcare, Health Services (such as Physiotherapists, Massage Therapists, and Chiropractors), Education (Teachers, Teacher Assistants, Bus drivers, Custodians, School Admin), Retail and Grocery, Social Services, Food and Restaurant Services, Trucking, Warehousing, Transportation and Delivery, Custodian and Maintenance/Repairs, Security, and Construction.

Event organizers note that if an individual’s industry or occupation isn’t included in the list but they provided an essential or frontline service to the community, they can still take advantage of this offer. No validation or proof of identification is required to redeem the free admission.

Ride All Day pass

Pick up a Ride All Day card from Safeway, Sobeys, or IGA for $39.99 and redeem the pass for 60 coupons or a Ride All Day Wristband. The offer is valid for all North American Midway Entertainment rides and games, and the WestJet Skyride.

Stampede Bucks

Get $50 for only $39.99! Event attendees can purchase $50 in Stampede Bucks for $39.99 at participating Costco locations. Stampede Bucks can be used on Rodeo and Evening Show tickets and for food and beverages, rides and games, parking, and shopping at Stampede Park.

Elle McLeanElle McLean

+ Listed
+ Stampede