Calgary Stampede Holidays

The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth

Each July, visitors from around the world come to Calgary to experience a show like no other. The 10-day Stampede is a celebration of Western heritage, where cowboy hats and a sense of fun are mandatory. The city transforms to accommodate the Rodeo arena which is where the main events like bull riding, saddle bronc and barrel racing take place. There is also a huge fairground, agricultural exhibits and plenty of dining and music.

Afternoon Rodeo

Every day of the Stampede, the Richest Afternoon in Rodeo takes place between 1.15pm and 4.15pm. This is when cowboys and cowgirls face off in a knuckle-biting display of skill and daring across six major events. These are the gripping disciplines of bareback riding, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, bull riding and saddle bronc. Whichever event gets you on the edge of your seat, you'll want the best ringside seats to experience the action.

Evening Show

Every evening at 7.45pm, the stadium lights up with a world-class evening show. The double-header features both the exciting GMC Rangeland Derby Chuckwagon Races and the TransAlta Grandstand Stage Show. The chuckwagon races see horse-drawn, canvas-covered wagons tear around the arena in a fast and furious race. The Grandstand show afterwards features incredible dance, music, acrobatics and fireworks with major stars performing live.

When is the Calgary Stampede?

Planning to visit the Calgary Stampede?

2023's Stampede will take place between 7th and 16th July.

The Stampede is held every year for 10 days during July. As it's such a popular event, the tickets and hotels book up quickly. Plan ahead and book yours well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Book now to secure your ticket!

Incredible food trucks

The food is one of the biggest highlights at the Calgary Stampede! The most mouth-watering dishes from all over North America have made their way to the Stampede Park. The free pancake breakfasts at Fluor Rope Square are legendary and are the perfect way to fuel up for the day. Other food stalls offer everything from poutine (chips, cheese and gravy) to chicken wings, waffles, cookie dough and doughnuts. Yum!

Free concerts

The Stampede is actually one of Canada's largest music festivals. From country legends to rock royalty, many of the best acts in music have joined in the knees-up at the Calgary Stampede. On top of the famous Evening Show, there are free shows at the Coca-Cola Stage featuring America's hottest young artists. Shows are also free at Nashville North which hosts live country music. Perhaps the biggest and best are the acts at the free Virgin Mobile Stampede Concert Series.

The Midway

Travelling to Canada for The Calgary Stampede isn't just a holiday for grown-ups. The Midway funfair is filled with rides and attractions that kids will love (big and small)! There are roller coasters, a big wheel, paintball and axe throwing for big kids, while little kids will be happy in The Great FUNtier where everything is kid-sized. Entry to the Midway is included in your Rodeo ticket and coupons can be purchased for the individual rides. Prepare for candyfloss and whack-a-mole!

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Agriculture & Elbow River Camp

The Stampede is synonymous with its Western roots. These ideals are celebrated every year with its agricultural showcases. Young and old alike will love meeting the cowboys, the steers and even draft horses. Elbow River Camp celebrates the rich First Nations heritage and culture in Alberta. The colourful village is full of native dances, games, tipis, traditional cooking and more activities.

Agricultural Showcases

The other side to the Stampede. The demonstrations and hands-on experiences offer insight into the Canadian West’s rich agricultural heritage. Interact with the animals on Nutrien Barn Tours, in the Draft Horse Town or in the Horse Haven. Make friends with ducklings in the Country Critters section or learn how the pioneers lived in the Heritage Cabin.

Bell Adrenaline Ranch

The Bell Adrenaline Ranch is a whole different kind of Calgary rodeo. In the Stampede Corral you’ll find Light It Up!, a show by top Motocross athletes. Watch jaw-dropping motorbike stunts from the edge of your seat as the adrenaline-pumping athletes jump out of theirs. Expect flips, jumps and stunts to bring the house down.

Types of tickets & packages

You can buy individual tickets for the Afternoon Rodeo or Evening Show each day, with price bands for different seating levels and zones. The most budget-friendly tickets are in the end zones, while the best seats are in the Level 1 Centre. It all depends on your budget and the type of view you've been dreaming of. You can also book Premium Seating in the exclusive Lazy S gourmet restaurant with unbeatable views, or in the more affordable Clubhouse Restaurant.

Ticket only package

You can buy a ticket only package through us for reserved seating at either the afternoon rodeo, the evening show or both.

Two Day Thrill Package

This popular double-header includes two days of Stampede Park events and entertainment with a Stampede Rodeo ticket for one day and an Evening Show ticket for the next day. Package includes:

• Reserved Afternoon Rodeo seat in the Main Level
• Reserved Evening Show seat in the Balcony Level
• Souvenir programs for each show, a cowboy hat and tote bag
• 2 WestJet Skyride tickets across Stampede Park
• 20% discount at the Calgary Stampede Store and all Lammle's Western apparel stores across Alberta

Get the most from your visit

Here are some tips for fun things you shouldn't miss at the Calgary Stampede:

• Take a trip on the WestJet Skyride to rest your legs and get a bird's eye view of Stampede Park.
• Dress up! Everyone at Stampede will be wearing boots, jeans and a cowboy hat, so don't be afraid to dress up. You'll only look out of place if you don't!
• Free pancake breakfasts can be found all over Calgary during Stampede, so do a bit of planning to eat for free!

Speak with our experts

Thinking of booking a Calgary Stampede holiday in Canada? There is no experience quite like attending the greatest outdoor show on earth. Give our friendly team a call and to talk through exactly what you are looking for from your trip.

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