13 things to do at the Calgary Stampede for under $50

Calgary Stampede Parade

Angela Burger/Calgary Flames

The Calgary Stampede kicks off in style, and you can enjoy it for free! See some wild floats and get a front-row look at a few celebrities. Plus, if you head right to the grounds after it is done, you will get into Stampede for free.

Cost: Free

Pancake breakfasts

Richard H Grant/Shutterstock

If you want to save money during the Stampede, you can have a steady diet of pancakes for 10 days and not spend a dime. There will be so many chances to try out some pancakes across the city.

Cost: Free

Try some new Midway food

We love to try new dishes, and the wild menu items are a staple of the Calgary Stampede, and although you won’t be able to get a ton for under $50, you can still try out a couple of interesting dishes.

Cost: Varies by item

Nashville North, Big Four Roadhouse, Coke Stage Concerts

Calgary Stampede/Facebook

While there are plenty of concerts that will stretch your budget, the Stampede offers some great options that are included with your admission to the grounds. Nashville North and the Big 4 Roadhouse give you some great choices with lots of beverages, while the Coke Stage is located right by the midway.

Cost: Free with admission to the Stampede

Games and rides

There are so many great rides to choose from with a few new attractions sprinkled in every year. There are a few ticket packages available for under $50, so you can enjoy them without breaking the bank.

Cost: 1 Coupon – $1, 11 Coupons – $10, 22 Coupons – $20, 55 Coupons – $50

Elbow River Camp

Calgary Stampede/Facebook

Experience the cultures of the Kainai, Piikani, Siksika, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina First Nations of Treaty 7 in Elbow River Camp. Check out 26 tipis featuring local artisans selling jewelry and art, bannock and Saskatoonberry jam, and traditional dancing.

Cost: Free with admission to the Stampede

Monster Energy Compound

There are four chances a day to get a massive hit of adrenaline with the extreme sports portion of the Stampede at the Monster Energy Compound. Check out some wild stunts that seem to defy gravity.

Cost: Free with admission to the Stampede

The Dog Bowl

One of the cutest parts of the Calgary Stampede is also one of the most budget-friendly options. Check out the incredibly talented dogs four times a day. It is also indoors, so it’s a nice break from the heat.

Cost: Free with admission to the Stampede

Stampede Powwow

Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede Powwow brings two days of competition on July 7 and 8. You’ll see the best dancers and drummers from across Canada and the United States, highlighting the diversity of First Nations dancing, singing, and drumming.

Cost: Free with admission to the Stampede

Western Oasis

This is another cost-effective way to beat the heat at the Stampede. See original artwork and photographs while enjoying music and other entertainment at the Window on the West Stage. There is also a relaxing Wine Garden to let you escape the hustle of the Calgary Stampede for a bit.

Cost: Free with admission to the Stampede

Agriculture showcases

Calgary Stampede

You can see some adorable animals and learn about the farming world in Alberta with plenty of hands-on demonstrations and fun events. The miniature donkey showcase and horse haven sound like a total blast!

Cost: Free with admission to the Stampede

See the fireworks

It does cost a pretty penny to get into the grandstand show, but fireworks are tough to hide. You can see the fireworks from anywhere on or around the grounds, making it the perfect way to end a budget-friendly day.