The Calgary Stampede is often referred to as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” This ten-day event, held every July in Calgary, Alberta, draws over a million visitors from around the world. Known for its rodeo competitions, concerts, parades, and exhibitions, the Calgary Stampede is a vibrant celebration of Western heritage, Indigenous culture, and community spirit. This article explores the diverse array of events and attractions that make the Calgary Stampede a must-see festival, highlighting its rich history and cultural significance.
Historical Background
Origins of the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede traces its origins to 1912 when Guy Weadick, an American trick roper, envisioned a grand rodeo to celebrate Western culture. Supported by Calgary’s Big Four cattlemen—George Lane, A.J. McLean, Pat Burns, and A.E. Cross—Weadick organized the first Stampede, which included rodeo events, horse races, and agricultural exhibits.
Evolution and Growth
Over the years, the Calgary Stampede has evolved from a small local event into an internationally renowned festival. The addition of the Calgary Exhibition in 1886 and the merger of the Stampede and Exhibition in 1923 marked significant milestones in its growth. Today, the Stampede combines agricultural exhibitions, educational programs, and world-class entertainment, attracting visitors from across the globe.
Rodeo Events
Signature Rodeo Competitions
At the heart of the Calgary Stampede are its rodeo competitions, which feature some of the best cowboys and cowgirls from around the world. The main events include:
Bareback Riding: Contestants ride wild horses without a saddle, relying on a rigging made of leather and rawhide.
Bull Riding: Riders attempt to stay on a bucking bull for eight seconds, holding onto a bull rope.
Saddle Bronc Riding: Similar to bareback riding but with a saddle, riders aim to maintain their balance on a bucking horse.
Steer Wrestling: Also known as bulldogging, contestants leap from their horse to wrestle a steer to the ground.
Tie-Down Roping: Riders lasso a calf, dismount, and tie three of its legs together in the fastest time possible.
Barrel Racing: A timed event where cowgirls race their horses around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels.
Payout and Prestige
The Calgary Stampede Rodeo is one of the richest in the world, with a total prize purse exceeding $2 million. The competition culminates in the “Showdown Sunday,” where champions are crowned and substantial cash prizes are awarded.
Chuckwagon Races
Rangeland Derby
The Calgary Stampede’s chuckwagon races, known as the Rangeland Derby, are a thrilling highlight of the event. Each evening, drivers, outriders, and teams of horses race around a figure-eight barrel obstacle and then sprint around the track.
Historical Significance
Chuckwagon races pay homage to the chuckwagon drivers who cooked for cowboys during cattle drives. This event has been a staple of the Stampede since 1923, combining historical significance with high-speed excitement.
Indigenous Culture
Elbow River Camp
The Calgary Stampede honours Indigenous culture through the Elbow River Camp, formerly known as the Indian Village. This area showcases the traditions and heritage of the Treaty 7 First Nations, which include the Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina Nations.
Cultural Displays
Visitors can explore authentic tipis, witness traditional dance and drumming performances, and learn about Indigenous crafts and customs. The Elbow River Camp provides a space for cultural exchange and education, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of Indigenous peoples’ contributions to Canada’s heritage.
Entertainment and Concerts
Stampede Concert Series
The Calgary Stampede features an impressive lineup of musical acts, ranging from country and rock to pop and hip-hop. The Stampede Concert Series attracts top-tier performers, offering something for every musical taste. Past headliners have included Garth Brooks, Keith Urban, and Shania Twain.
Coca-Cola Stage and Nashville North
In addition to the main concert series, the Stampede hosts performances on the Coca-Cola Stage and at Nashville North, a country music tent. These venues provide non-stop entertainment throughout the ten-day festival, showcasing both emerging artists and established stars.
Agricultural Exhibits
Showcasing Rural Heritage
Agriculture has always been a cornerstone of the Calgary Stampede, reflecting Alberta’s deep-rooted farming and ranching traditions. The agricultural exhibits offer a glimpse into rural life, featuring livestock competitions, horse shows, and educational displays.
Competitions and Demonstrations
Visitors can watch cattle judging, horse pulling, and sheep shearing demonstrations. The Calgary Stampede also hosts the World Stock Dog Championship, where skilled handlers and their dogs demonstrate their ability to herd livestock.
Midway and Carnival
Rides and Games
The Stampede Midway is a bustling hub of excitement, with a wide array of rides and games for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters and Ferris wheels to classic carnival games, the Midway offers endless fun and entertainment.
Food and Treats
No visit to the Calgary Stampede is complete without indulging in the unique and often outrageous food offerings. From deep-fried delicacies and oversized turkey legs to innovative creations like cricket pizza and deep-fried Oreo cookies, the Midway is a food lover’s paradise.
Parades and Shows
Calgary Stampede Parade
The Calgary Stampede kicks off with a grand parade through downtown Calgary. The parade features elaborate floats, marching bands, equestrian units, and cultural performers. It sets the tone for the ten days of festivities, drawing large crowds of spectators.
Grandstand Show
The nightly Grandstand Show is a spectacular production that combines music, dance, and theatrical performances. The show typically culminates in a breathtaking fireworks display, lighting up the Calgary skyline and providing a fitting end to each day’s festivities.
Family and Kids’ Activities
Stampede Kids’ Day
The Calgary Stampede is a family-friendly event with numerous activities and attractions designed for children. Stampede Kids’ Day offers free admission for kids and a variety of activities such as face painting, petting zoos, and interactive exhibits.
BMO Kids’ Zone
The BMO Kids’ Zone is a dedicated area for young visitors, featuring age-appropriate rides, games, and educational displays. It provides a safe and entertaining environment for families to enjoy the Stampede experience together.
Community and Volunteer Spirit
Volunteers and Community Involvement
The Calgary Stampede is powered by the dedication and hard work of thousands of volunteers. These individuals contribute their time and effort to ensure the success of the event, embodying the spirit of community and cooperation that defines the Stampede.
Charitable Initiatives
The Calgary Stampede is committed to giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives. The organization supports local non-profits, provides scholarships for young people, and promotes agricultural education and sustainability.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Boosting the Local Economy
The Calgary Stampede generates significant economic activity for Calgary and the surrounding region. The influx of visitors provides a substantial boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments.
Cultural Significance
The Calgary Stampede plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Western heritage and Indigenous culture. It serves as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate shared traditions and values.
Sustainability and Future Initiatives
Environmental Stewardship
The Calgary Stampede is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Initiatives include waste reduction, recycling programs, and efforts to minimize the environmental impact of the event. The organization is continuously exploring new ways to enhance its sustainability practices.
Future Plans
Looking to the future, the Calgary Stampede aims to expand and improve its facilities and programs. Plans include upgrading infrastructure, enhancing visitor experiences, and increasing educational and cultural offerings. The goal is to ensure that the Stampede remains a world-class event for generations to come.
See also: What Three Events You Can See at the Calgary Stampede
Conclusion
The Calgary Stampede is a unique and multifaceted event that captures the essence of Western Canadian culture. From thrilling rodeo competitions and chuckwagon races to vibrant concerts and cultural displays, the Stampede offers something for everyone. It is a celebration of heritage, community, and the spirit of adventure that defines Alberta and Canada as a whole. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time attendee, the Calgary Stampede promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the best of what Canada has to offer.