Overview
Welcome to The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth! The Calgary Stampede is an electrifying ten-day festival that transforms the city of Calgary, Alberta, into a vibrant hub of Western heritage and culture every July.
This world-renowned event is an annual rodeo, exhibition, and festival that attracts over a million visitors from across the globe.
It’s a spectacular celebration of Canada’s pioneering spirit and cowboy traditions, packed with thrilling events, dazzling entertainment, and unforgettable experiences.
First held in 1912, the Stampede has grown into one of the world's most famous festivals. It’s a must-do for families, couples, groups of friends, and solo adventurers alike.
Whether you're a die-hard rodeo fan, a music lover, a foodie, or just looking for a unique cultural experience, the Stampede offers something for everyone.
From the heart-stopping action of the chuckwagon races to the massive midway and world-class concerts, the energy is infectious and the memories last a lifetime.
What to Expect
A visit to the Calgary Stampede is a full-day, and often multi-day, adventure. The experience begins the moment you step onto Stampede Park, a sprawling venue buzzing with excitement. The day typically kicks off with the iconic Stampede Parade in downtown Calgary, a spectacular procession of floats, marching bands, and over 700 horses.
Inside the park, your day is filled with choices. The main event is the Stampede Rodeo, held every afternoon at 1:30 p.m.
Here, you'll witness the world's best cowboys and cowgirls compete in six major events: saddle bronc, bareback riding, bull riding, steer wrestling, tie-down roping, and ladies' barrel racing.
As evening approaches, the energy shifts to the GMC Stadium for the Evening Show.
The thunderous Rangeland Derby, featuring thrilling chuckwagon races, is followed by the spectacular Grandstand Show—a 90-minute performance of music, acrobatics, and fireworks that lights up the night sky.
Beyond the grandstand, explore the midway with its classic rides and games, indulge in unique Stampede foods, or catch live music at the Coca-Cola Stage and Nashville North.
You can also explore agricultural showcases and the Elbow River Camp, where you can experience the traditions and cultures of the Siksika, Piikani, Kainai, Tsuut’ina, and Stoney Nakoda First Nations.
Prices & Booking
Ticket prices for the Calgary Stampede vary depending on the event and seating choice. General admission to Stampede Park gives you access to the grounds, music stages like the Coca-Cola Stage, and various exhibitions.
For the premier events like the Afternoon Rodeo and the Evening Show, separate tickets are required, but these tickets conveniently include same-day park admission.
Rodeo and Evening Show ticket prices typically start from around $55 and can go up significantly for premium seating.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for popular concert headliners and the final championship weekend, as events frequently sell out.
Tickets can be purchased directly through the official Calgary Stampede website or its official ticketing partner, AXS.
Various packages are also available, such as the GMC Denali Evening Show Family Package, offering a combined experience for families.
Please note that all ticket sales are final and refunds are not offered. However, if you are unable to use your tickets, they may be eligible for resale through the AXS Official Resale platform. Gift vouchers are not typically offered for general tickets, but corporate hosting and premium packages can be arranged for groups.
What's Included
Understanding what your ticket includes is key to planning your day. Here’s a general breakdown:
- General Park Admission: Access to Stampede Park, live music at the Coca-Cola Stage and Nashville North (subject to age restrictions and capacity), agricultural exhibits, the Elbow River Camp, and all public spaces.
- Rodeo or Evening Show Ticket: Includes your reserved seat for the selected performance (either the Afternoon Rodeo or the full Evening Show) plus general admission to Stampede Park for the entire day of your event.
- Corona Skydeck Package: This premium ticket includes your spot on the rooftop party deck for the Rodeo or Evening Show, along with Western-inspired food items and full Stampede Park admission.
What's not included are midway rides and games, food and beverages (unless part of a premium package), merchandise, and parking. These require separate payment.
What to Bring
To make the most of your Stampede experience, come prepared for a long and exciting day outdoors. Calgary's weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers is always a smart choice.
- Comfortable Footwear: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes, like cowboy boots or sneakers, are essential.
- Sun Protection: A cowboy hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are must-haves for protection from the summer sun.
- Jacket or Raincoat: Even on a sunny day, a light jacket or rain poncho is a good idea as temperatures can drop in the evening, and summer showers are common. -
- Payment Methods: While many vendors accept cash, credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the park.
- Water Bottle: Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day at the various water stations.
- Portable Phone Charger: With all the photos and videos you'll be taking, a portable battery pack will keep your phone going all day.
Safety & Requirements
The Calgary Stampede is an all-ages event, though some areas have specific restrictions. The entire park is family-friendly, but note that Nashville North and some other licensed venues are restricted to guests 18 years of age and older, with government-issued ID required for entry.
There are no specific fitness or height requirements for general attendance, but be prepared for extensive walking and navigating large crowds. The park is accessible, with services for guests with disabilities.
For safety, all guests and their bags are subject to a search before entering Stampede Park. A comprehensive list of restricted items can be found on the official Stampede website.
Getting There
The Calgary Stampede is held at Stampede Park, located at 1410 Olympic Way SE, just southeast of downtown Calgary. While there is on-site parking available, it is limited, comes at a cost, and fills up very quickly. The most convenient and recommended way to get to the Stampede is by using Calgary's public transit system, the C-Train.
Two C-Train stations provide direct access to the park: Erlton/Stampede Station and Victoria Park/Stampede Station. These stations drop you right at the park entrances, allowing you to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Several bus routes also service the area. If you're staying downtown, it's also a pleasant walk or a short taxi ride to the grounds.
Best Time to Visit
The Stampede runs for 10 days in early July, and any day you choose will be action-packed. Weekdays, particularly Monday to Thursday, tend to be slightly less crowded than the weekends, which can make for a more relaxed experience navigating the park and midway. For the best value, look for special value days which offer discounted admission.
To avoid the biggest crowds, plan to arrive early in the day, just as the park opens. This gives you time to explore the grounds, enjoy the midway, and find your seat for the Afternoon Rodeo without the midday rush.
Check the daily schedule on the Calgary Stampede website or app before you go to plan your day around the specific shows, concerts, and events you don't want to miss.
Tips & Insider Knowledge
To experience the Stampede like a local, start your day at one of the dozens of free pancake breakfasts held across the city. These community events are a cherished tradition and a great way to fuel up for the day ahead.
Download the official Calgary Stampede App on your phone; it’s an invaluable tool with a park map, daily schedules, and real-time updates.
For the best value, consider purchasing the Stampede SuperPass, which often offers unlimited park entry for all 10 days.
If you plan to attend both the Rodeo and the Evening Show, it's often more economical to buy tickets for different days to give yourself enough time to experience everything else the park has to offer.
Finally, don't leave without trying some of the wild and wonderful midway food—from classic mini donuts to deep-fried creations, it's an essential part of the Stampede experience.
],booking_required:true,booking_url:
