Every year in the middle of July, Calgary hosts hundreds of thousands of cowboys and cowgirls attending the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth for 10 days and here is our ultimate guide to making the most of your time there!
The Calgary Stampede is a world-famous event that takes place every year in Calgary, Alberta. It's a celebration of Western heritage and culture, a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique and exciting experience. Last year, one of our team members had the privilege of attending the Calgary Stampede for two days, and he said it was one of the most memorable trips he has ever taken.
I had the pleasure of staying at the magnificent Fairmont Palliser, one of our preferred partners for the Calgary Stampede. Make sure to ask our expert Travel Designer’s to request a room with a view of 9th Ave. The perfect spot to watch the iconic Stampede Parade as it marched by, filling the street with a burst of colors and energy. I was in awe of the magical experience unfolding right before my eyes, all from the comfort of my luxurious room.
Another highlight of staying at the Fairmont Palliser was the Stampede breakfast, served on the morning of the parade. It was a feast fit for a cowboy or cowgirl! The spread was incredible, featuring freshly baked pastries, massive pancakes, delicious omelets, and various classic Western-style breakfast dishes. And let's not forget the "build your own Caesar" station—I couldn't resist trying my hand at concocting the perfect Caesar. To top it all off, bottomless mimosas were poured generously, adding to the festive ambiance and setting the stage for an unforgettable day at the Stampede. With a satisfied belly and a heart full of excitement, I was ready to dive into the Stampede experience. The Fairmont Palliser had truly set the tone for an extraordinary day ahead.
After a short 15-minute walk, we arrived at the Stampede grounds. If you're up for an adrenaline packed ride, hop on a Bird scooter and zip around to cut the travel time in half. When we arrived at the Stampede grounds, we were amazed by the sheer size of the festival. There were so many different things to see and do, there's never a moment of boredom. The rodeo show itself is a true spectacle. From the thundering hooves of the horses to the skilled maneuvers of the cowboys and cowgirls, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. The barrel racing was especially impressive, as the women and their horses raced around the barrels at insane speeds, their skills and agility on full display.
The rodeo is just the tip of the iceberg, though. The Stampede also features a huge midway with carnival games, rides, and all sorts of sweet treats. I indulged in some mini donuts, cotton candy, and even took a spin on the Ferris-Wheel to get a bird's eye view of the whole event. While the daytime events at the Stampede are certainly impressive, it's the nighttime festivities that truly set this festival apart.
After the sun goes down, the Stampede grounds come alive with a variety of exciting activities and entertainment options. One of the most popular nighttime events and my personal favorite at the Stampede is the Evening Show. This spectacle features an incredible mix of music, dancing, and acrobatics, all performed under the stars. The show typically lasts about an hour and a half and is a must-see for everyone! From there, witness one of the many concerts and performances.
The Coca-Cola Stage is the main concert venue, featuring performances by some of the biggest names in music. From country to rock to pop, there's always something exciting happening. Not a fan of loud music and adrenaline rushing acrobatics? No worries, for those who prefer something a little more low-key, there are plenty of quieter activities to enjoy as well. The Stampede offers nightly fireworks displays, a great way to cap off a long day of fun and excitement. There are also plenty of opportunities to shop for Western-themed souvenirs and crafts or to simply sit back and enjoy a cold beer while taking in the sights and sounds of the Stampede.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Stampede-goer, there's always something new and exciting to experience at this incredible festival. If you're looking to make the most of your Stampede experience, consider booking one of our Calgary Stampede Vacation Packages, including hotel accommodations, transportation, tickets to the rodeo, Evening Show, and other events. So, grab your cowboy hat and boots and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the Calgary Stampede! Have questions or want to customize your trip? Contact our team at sales@canadabydesign.com or 1 (800) 217 0973.
Calgary Stampede Package (4 days)
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Calgary Stampede with the Canadian Rockies VIA Rail (10 days)
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