Calgary Stampede for Beginners

Posted by Lori Henry Jul 8, 2008

The annual Calgary Stampede is one of the largest in the world. Albertans get ready for this event months in advance and welcome the world to their showcase city of Calgary.

All the stops are pulled out to offer a western-themed trip including daily pancake breakfasts, cowboy hats galore, “Yee Haws” ringing through the streets, and enough drinking to make your head spin.

I just returned from the first weekend of Stampede, exhausted and ecstatic to have experienced what is dubbed “The Best Outdoor Show on Earth.” I was blown away by the event and can’t wait to share with you what I learned in my “First Time at Calgary Stampede” article (see below).

It’ll cover how to decide what to pack into each day, as there’s the Stampede parade, first class rodeo, chuckwagon races, agricultural exhibits, family activities, games and rides, live music, and the phenomenal grandstand show.

For now, head to the Calgary Stampede website to get the daily event schedules and info about concerts and the rodeo. If you want to plan a last minute trip, you still have all week to get to Calgary and join the fun. Travel Alberta (1-800-252-3782) can help with arrangements. Yee Haw!

UPDATE: My First Time at Calgary Stampede article is now up!