Since Guy Weadick founded the Calgary Stampede & Exhibition in 1912, the 10-day celebration continues to excite Calgary residents and over a million visitors with ferocity that rivals the meanest bulls of the world renowned rodeo. Held annually in July, the Calgary Stampede honors the city's western heritage and has been deemed "the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth."
Although Calgary is a modern city of over one million residents, the Calgary Stampede transforms it into a 21st century wild west featuring good 'ol western hospitality and fun. The Stampede Grounds hosts not only the internationally recognized Calgary Stampede Rodeo and GMC Rangeland Chuckwagon Derby, but a series of agricultural competitions and a variety of midway and carnival attractions including food, stage shows, rides, games and concerts by major artists.
One of Canada's largest annual events, and the world's largest outdoor rodeo, the Calgary Stampede & Exhibition also features First Nations exhibitions and pancake breakfasts around the city, bringing with it a unique atmosphere that draws the entire city out to celebrate in western attire. The opening day Calgary Stampede Parade is one of the festival's oldest and largest traditions. The Calgary Stampede Parade regularly draws a crowd of more than 350,000 and is not to be missed.
The Calgary Stampede takes place at the Stampede Park, located southeast of downtown Calgary in the Beltline District. The park is conveniently accessible by public transit and there is often plenty of parking. Prominent site structures include:
the Pengrowth Saddledome (hockey arena)
the Round-Up Centre (convention and exhibition facility)
the Stampede Casino
the Big Four Building (agriculture building)
The Calgary Stampede - a History
The Calgary Exhibition was first held in 1886 soon after the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the city. The Calgary Stampede (a separate event) was inaugurated in 1912 by Guy Weadick, an American trick roper. Weadick wanted to put on a world-class rodeo event and Wild West show that would bring the best cowboys from across the continent. The first Calgary Stampede in history drew over 100,000 spectators and was the richest rodeo competition in North America. In 1923, the Stampede was combined with the Calgary Exhibition and the event has taken place every year since.
BustLoose TV!
Follow BustLoose.com on Twitter!
Become a fan!
Follow the Party Blog!
Become a fan of BustLoose.com on Facebook!
Check out some wild parties on BustLoose.com TV!