It’s known as 'The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’. And, whether you’re an authentic cowboy or of the urban variety, you’ll have to agree the Calgary Stampede is indeed an event like no other. Virtually every business in ‘Cowtown’ (a.k.a. Calgary, as it’s known any other time of year) closes its doors to line the downtown streets for the annual Stampede Parade. More than 150 floats, antique vehicles, heavy horses, natives in traditional dress, chuckwagons, the Stampede Queen as well as lively marching bands participate in a two-hour procession through Calgary’s core, kicking off a wild 10-day ride. So get out your cowboy boots and your 10-gallon hat and join in the fun! Start with the rodeo that breaks into action each afternoon. You won’t want to take your eyes off the trick riders as they leap from one bareback horse to another with a jackrabbit’s ease. Real working cowboys show off their bull riding and roping skills, dazzling the audience as they wrestle steers and ride bareback. Don’t miss the outstanding women’s skills and talent in the Ladies Barrel racing events and be sure to check out the hoop dancers, saddle bronc riding and good ol’ fashioned horse racing. Then, mosey on over to catch the daily chuckwagon races, staged every evening in the Grandstand on Stampede Park. While you’re there, take in the Grandstand Show featuring world-class western entertainment. And just in case the show wasn’t enough, a thrilling fireworks display lights up the night. Catch top-name country acts performing in Nashville North and upcoming stars in the Youth Talent Showdown. Satisfy your appetite by rustling up some grub at one of the Stampede’s tasty eateries. Visit the Western Showcase to see Western Canadian Arts and Culture.
Don’t miss another great western attraction – the Stampede Casino, where you can indulge in slot action on 500 machines and more than 55 table games, including craps, roulette, baccarat, poker, tile pai gow, Caribbean progressive poker and money wheels. Greenhorns can even learn the ropes at the Fun Pit. If you have your own little cowpokes in tow, don’t miss the Midway where kids of all sizes and ages can board attractions such as the ‘Sky Ride’, the ‘Euroslide’, the ‘Drop of Fear’ and the ‘Slingshot’. Sports fans might stumble into the Hockey Hall of Fame where they can test their goaltending, shooting and broadcasting skills, while any parent worth their leather will toss a few balls in effort to win a stuffed steer at one of the many game booths. The Stampede moves with a thoroughbred’s speed but as the day winds down look for the ultimate foot massage – a mere quarter will buy you a much-needed automated rub.
