The Calgary Stampede is one of the most celebrated and iconic events in Canadian festival culture. Known for its deep roots in cowboy tradition and western heritage, the Stampede has evolved into a massive festival that offers a thrilling blend of rodeo competitions, live entertainment, cultural exhibitions, and of course, a midway filled with an array of exhilarating rides. As someone deeply connected to Canadian festival culture, particularly as a Canadian aboriginal, I can appreciate how the Calgary Stampede is much more than just a local event—it has grown into a national treasure that draws in visitors from all around the world.
This article explores the excitement of the Calgary Stampede’s rides, the variety that can be found on the midway, and the cultural significance of the event. For those curious about just how many rides are available at the Calgary Stampede, let’s take a closer look at the history, diversity, and thrill of this world-famous festival.
The Calgary Stampede: A Brief Overview
Before we dive into the specifics of the rides, it’s essential to understand the Calgary Stampede itself. The Stampede began in 1912 as a small rodeo and exhibition but has since grown into what is often referred to as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Held annually in Calgary, Alberta, over ten days in July, the event draws over a million attendees each year. The Stampede encompasses everything from world-class rodeo events, chuckwagon races, and grandstand shows to agricultural exhibits, food vendors, and cultural displays, offering something for everyone.
One of the major draws of the Stampede is its massive midway, which is packed with rides and games that add to the festival’s lively atmosphere. Families, thrill-seekers, and people of all ages flock to the midway to enjoy its vast offerings, making it one of the central attractions of the Stampede.
The Calgary Stampede Midway: A Thrilling Ride Experience
The Calgary Stampede midway is an experience like no other. It’s an essential part of the festival, offering a mixture of adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, classic amusement park attractions, and family-friendly options. The variety of rides is one of the hallmarks of the midway, catering to everyone from young children to adults looking for high-speed, heart-racing adventures.
So, how many rides are there at the Calgary Stampede? The answer can vary slightly from year to year depending on the selection of rides brought in by the organizers. However, on average, the midway features around 60 to 70 rides. These rides range from gentle carousels to extreme roller coasters and gravity-defying experiences. Let’s break down the types of rides typically found at the Calgary Stampede.
1. Thrill Rides
For those who crave excitement and adrenaline, the Calgary Stampede’s midway offers an impressive selection of thrill rides. These rides are designed to push the limits of speed, height, and intensity, providing an unforgettable experience for festival-goers. Some of the most popular thrill rides at the Stampede include:
The Zipper: A ride that has been a staple at fairs and carnivals for decades, the Zipper involves spinning, flipping, and plunging in a cage-like car, creating a dizzying experience.
The Crazy Mouse: A roller coaster that offers sharp turns and spins, the Crazy Mouse is a midway classic that never fails to deliver excitement.
The Drop of Doom: Not for the faint of heart, this ride lifts passengers to a towering height before plummeting them back to the ground at terrifying speeds.
The Mach 3: One of the most extreme rides on the midway, the Mach 3 spins riders in giant loops while swinging them back and forth at high speeds.
These thrill rides are designed to test the courage of riders and provide an intense rush of adrenaline. For many attendees, these rides are the highlight of their Stampede experience, as they offer an exhilarating break from the more traditional rodeo and exhibition events.
2. Family Rides
While the Calgary Stampede is known for its thrilling attractions, it also caters to families and younger children with a wide variety of family-friendly rides. These rides are designed to be less intense but still entertaining, ensuring that even the youngest festival-goers have a memorable time. Some of the family rides you can expect to find at the Stampede include:
The Carousel: A classic ride that appeals to children and adults alike, the carousel offers a gentle and whimsical experience as riders hop on beautifully crafted horses that move up and down while the ride spins in a circle.
The Ferris Wheel: Another staple of any good midway, the Ferris Wheel offers breathtaking views of the Stampede grounds and the Calgary skyline. This ride is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed and scenic experience.
The Scrambler: A ride that is fast but not too intense, the Scrambler spins riders around in a series of tight circles, creating a fun and exciting experience for families.
Bumper Cars: Always a favorite, bumper cars allow riders to drive around and “bump” into each other in a controlled and safe environment. This ride is perfect for families who want to enjoy some lighthearted fun together.
Family rides are a significant part of the Stampede experience, offering something for everyone regardless of age or thrill tolerance. The mix of excitement and gentler attractions ensures that families can enjoy the midway together.
3. Kiddie Rides
For the youngest visitors, the Calgary Stampede midway offers a variety of kiddie rides that are designed specifically for small children. These rides are gentle, colorful, and engaging, providing a safe and fun experience for young kids. Some popular kiddie rides at the Stampede include:
The Tea Cups: A spinning ride where children can control the speed of their teacup, making it as fast or as slow as they like.
The Kiddie Coaster: A small roller coaster designed for young children, offering a mild introduction to the thrill of coasters without the fear factor of larger rides.
The Mini Ferris Wheel: A smaller version of the classic Ferris Wheel, designed specifically for children to enjoy.
The Swing Ride: A gentle swing ride that lifts children into the air and spins them around in a circle, creating a sensation of flying.
These kiddie rides are a significant draw for families with young children, ensuring that even the littlest visitors have plenty to do and enjoy on the midway.
The Calgary Stampede: A Cultural and Economic Powerhouse
While the midway rides are a major part of the Calgary Stampede, it’s important to recognize the broader cultural and economic significance of the event. The Stampede is not only a celebration of western heritage and cowboy culture but also a massive driver of economic activity in Calgary and the surrounding areas.
The event generates millions of dollars in revenue for the city, benefiting local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and other services. The influx of tourists during the ten days of the Stampede provides a significant boost to the local economy, creating jobs and supporting a wide range of industries.
In addition to its economic impact, the Calgary Stampede is also a cultural touchstone for Canadians, particularly those in the western provinces. It celebrates the history and traditions of ranching, rodeo, and agriculture, while also embracing modern entertainment and attractions. The event serves as a gathering point for people from all walks of life, providing an opportunity to connect with others, experience new things, and enjoy the rich tapestry of Canadian culture.
See also: When Is Carnival in Quebec City?
Conclusion: The Thrills of the Calgary Stampede Midway
So, how many rides are there at the Calgary Stampede? On average, the midway features around 60 to 70 rides, ranging from extreme thrill rides to gentle kiddie attractions. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone at the Stampede, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for your next heart-pounding adventure or a family seeking fun and excitement in a more relaxed setting.
The rides at the Calgary Stampede are a crucial part of the festival’s appeal, providing entertainment and excitement for visitors of all ages. But beyond the rides, the Stampede itself is a celebration of Canadian culture, history, and community. It’s an event that brings people together, creating lasting memories and reinforcing the bonds that make our country so special.
As a Canadian aboriginal who understands the significance of cultural events like the Calgary Stampede, I can attest to the importance of preserving and celebrating our shared heritage. The Stampede, with its blend of tradition and modernity, is a shining example of how festivals can evolve while still honoring the past. Whether you’re drawn to the rodeo, the concerts, or the midway, the Calgary Stampede offers an experience like no other—one that embodies the spirit of Canada and its people.