10 things to do with your significant other at Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is a real mixed bag of culture and events. It’s the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, filled to the brim with cowboy hats, boots and beer but it’s so much more than just that.

There’s something for everyone, and it’s a perfect event to have a date with your significant other. Below is just a short list of things you can do to make a day together.

Buy each other a cowboy hat

There are vendors selling western wear all over the place, with Lammle’s as a partner to the event. Lammle’s Western Wear & Tack is a family owned and operated Calgary-based company and is Canada’s largest western retailer. This year in particular, with only a little bit of cloud cover, the sun has been oppressive and not only will a cowboy hat help you fit in and feel the part, it’ll also protect you from the sun. Stop by one of the many Lammle’s outlets on the Stampede grounds and pick out a style of stetson that catches your eye.

Try out the WestJet Skyride

The WestJet Skyride is a ski lift style ride that crosses the stampede grounds. Riding the lift gives you a great view of the event, and it also gives you a minute to sit back and relax with your significant other in the middle of what can be a hectic day.

Eat crazy carnival food

Calgary Stampede is famous for its food vendors. You can get anything from more usual carnival food like corndogs or ribs, to deep fried cookie dough or oreo churros. A day at Stampede wouldn’t be complete without having something to eat, why not try something a little out of the box with your sweetheart?

Watch the Elements of Bollywood show

In the International Pavilion of the Big Four building, there are daily performances by the Toronto-based dance group Infuzion Artistry, showcasing their combination of traditional and modern dance. The show has a strong emphasis on elaborate costumes and lights, and is absolutely stunning to watch.

Watch a rodeo

Of course, the rodeo is the original reason we have the Stampede at all. Rodeo events are based on skills required in cattle ranching, and first started as informal events where cowboys would compete and show off their skills. At the Calgary Stampede, you can take your darling to watch events like this, including steer wrestling, barrel racing, tie-down roping, and many others.

Watch a concert

This Stampede, the music scene is huge. We have big names in the music industry heading our way to perform, and who doesn’t like taking their significant other to see a concert? Check out our article on the concerts that will be happening this year right here.

Visit Western Oasis

The Western Oasis is a beautiful centre of art and western culture at the Stampede. There are living statues, art galleries, photo galleries, food vendors, and much much more to explore with your sweetheart.

Ride carnival rides

Roller coasters, a ferris wheel, a log ride, a haunted house, and a lot more are just waiting for you to take your sweetheart on. The Calgary Stampede Midway is a great and affordable place to spend the day with your significant other.

Play carnival games

A longtime classic. We’ve all seen the movies. You take your darling to the carnival, you play some games, you win a giant stuffed animal, you give it to them. It’s a classic for a reason. Seriously, give it a shot this year. You’ll have a great time.

Watch the fireworks show

Every night at 11 pm there is a sensational fireworks show to end the night. This is a perfect opportunity to grab something yourself some mini donuts and hot cocoa and cuddle up to your loved one and relax. The Calgary Stampede fireworks show is the perfect way to end your day of western themed fun.

These are just a few ideas to get you through the day, but once you’re at the event itself, you’re going to find more things to keep your attention, and keep the fun moving right along with your dearest.

There’s just a few days left of Stampede so what are you waiting for? Grab a couple tickets and enjoy the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth with the person you love most.

ADDED BONUS: Get into the Stampede from Monday to Thursday this week after work for only $5.

See also

• 7 healthier eats to enjoy at the Calgary Stampede