Calgary Stampede

It is truly the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. The rides, animals, free swag, sponsored activities, free pancake breakfasts, spirit of the west, cowboy theming, spirit of community, games, and fun new foods are just so exciting and satisfying. The only drawback is that the price for food and drinks has skyrocketed out of control that it drains your wallet dry and takes away from the experience. They need a food price cap and a $2.00, $5.00, $10.00 and $15.00 menu offering or something as the prices for food appear unreasonably high. Other than that, you gotta try the dill pickle pizza as it’s fantastic! The poutine and fish and chips are good too!

It is an amazing 10-day event that takes place every year in July!! It contains fair food, rides, exhibitions, concessions, and so much more! The preferred mode of transport to get to this event would be the c-train as it is much easier to get to and from the grounds to. Parking is available around the grounds. However, it is usually very full/busy and expensive as well. Although it is a super busy venue to attend, there is always something for everyone to do. The kids love the fair games, winning prizes and riding the endless selection of rides. I have attended since I was a child with my family, and it is something I look forward to every year. A "Calgarian tradition" for sure. A great place to spend a day or a few, there's a vast availability of fair foods such as corn dogs, corn, ice cream, fries, lemonade, and so much more!

Went to the Flames vs Jets hockey game on Saturday November 15 2025 at the Saddledome. Good seats, decent burger and beer special at low pre-game price if get there about an hour before the game starts. Security screening at entry much less intrusive than past years. Staff smile way more. Place very clean. Newer sound system better, but cranked too loud which may be on purpose. Saw little kids with hearing protection head sets on. New center ice screens way better. Good contests anc candid shots of spectators on screens engaged the crowd. Bonus was the Flames win in exciting OT shootout!

Stampede is awesome! Coming for 2 years now and loving it. Such amazing human energy, concerts, and multitude of things to do. Cows, tanks, food, drinks, music, cowboy hats, gotta love it.

If you haven't been to the Calgary Stampede, you need to go, at least once. Billed as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth you'll want to take in the music (Country of course), food, drinks, rodeo, midway rides, and don't miss the Grandstand Show. No expense spared for the best fireworks display I've seen to end the show. Food wagon options include what you may expect at a fair. Some creative combo's along with the expected, such as a smoked Turkey Leg. (a bit pricey at 33.00). Be prepared for line ups and crowds. Advance purchase of admission tickets eliminates at least 1 line. You'll have a great time if you take in some of this 10 day event, and don't forget your Cowboy hat!

It could have been just the time of your but it was really difficult to get to this event. Many of the streets were closed. We could not get an Uber anywhere. Could not get taxis. The facility itself was decent inside with a good selection of food. The seeding in the stands a bit tight in places didn't appear. It was built with adults with semi-limited ability to get in and out of the area.

I left a message on Stampede's phone message, and I hope someone listens and addresses it. Stampede Park has a very prominent and glorious Canadian flag flying proudly and it always looks great. Disappointing though that today Feb 14 the flag is STILL flying way up high when almost every flag in the country is at half mast to recognize the tragedy of the mass killings in Tumbler Ridge that took place Feb 10. Stampede should represent Calgary better.

Fun day. Monster motorcycle booth was exciting. Grandstand show was spectacular. 18 and 15 year old teens gave it several thumbs up. Musical with plenty of fire and spectacle. Transit away was busy but fast.

Visiting the Canadian Rockies has been on my bucket list. We saved it for when we moved to Florida and wanted to get out of the summer heat. We arranged our travels around the annual stampede, The Calgary stampede is considered to be "the greatest outdoor show on earth." This 10 day annual rodeo, exhibition & festival annually in July attracts over 1 million visitors. It features one of the world's largest rodeos, a parade, midway, stage shows, concerts, agricultural competitions, chuckwagon racing, and First Nations exhibitions. It started in 1886 when the Calgary & the District Agricultural Society held its first fair. In 1912, The first rodeo and festival, known as the Stampede began when World War I veterans came home. In 2008, the Calgary Stampede was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame.

Does Calgary know how to do a parade! Friendly people, well organized, diverse and the sanitation department cleaning the horse manure during and after the parade. A bucket list experience that if you have the opportunity to do it, do it!

"Greatest Show on Earth"? Maybe not, but it's still a pretty good time. It's a family friendly rodeo that's super duper crowded with lots of alternative shows, booths, displays, etc. You can go and have a completely different experience than anyone else depending on what you choose to do. In that sense, it's a pretty cool experience. Food is big fair food, hate it or love it. Overall, unless you're participating in the rodeo, I'd say it's worth checking out if you're already planning to be in town but not worth making a special trip to attend.

The Greatest Show on Earth!!! It's so good to have the Stampede back after the Pandemic! I cut out of the Parade early after seeing a glimpse of the parade Marshal Kevin Costner! The grounds are free entry from 11 am to 1 pm today!!!! Wow is the ferris wheel ever big. Was told it's the largest traveling Ferris wheel in the world! It takes 21 semi trailers for the parts and equipment! I'm not a crowds person. I walked the grounds and had to check out the fairgrounds for rides, food and games. Grandkids played a few games then wanted to see the animals in the barns. Was a Hot morning with a early start because of the parade the kids got a little tired of all the excitement for their first Stampede. Theres The Grand Stand Show, Chuckwagon races, Bull rides etc.... Will be back for kids day and family day. The Stampede is a 10 day event! If you can, take transit to the grounds to save on expensive parking fees! The LRT redline stops right at the grounds. Well forth coming to Calgary for this event! Every day there is free traditional Stampede pancake breakfast somewhere in Calgary for the week of the Stampede. With fireworks every night!!! Yahoo!!

Second time for me. First time , 25 years ago. Now, age, 65, a little different. but, still fun. Just a lot more crowded. We enjoyed the Chuck Wagon race, and the evening show. We liked the Dog Show too. Nashville North was not on when we wanted to go. The over all experience is good. Lots of washrooms. Lots of food vendors. Not enough places to sit and eat. The coco Cola stage seemed a bit odd, no chairs, no shade, no tables ????? We took UBER back and forth from our hotel, as parking looked like a nightmare. I think its a great venue, but, like all attractions, take lots of money. the cowboy Casino, has a nice bar, and good food. Wear good shoes. Bring Water. snacks. we did not have small kids, but there are lots of rides for them. lots of bars for the young people to party at.

Probably the biggest rodeo you'll find anywhere, this 10-day festival features lots of great food, shows, and photo opportunities around the large BMO Centre. It's complete with plenty of music and fireworks as well. While I can't say there are any "must-have" food stand items, the funnel cakes, poutine, and potato spirals are always a good food choice to enjoy at this festival. There are also lots of kid-friendly rides that are great for younger children. If you are visiting Calgary during the summer, The Stampede is definitely an event you don't want to miss.

I love the Stampede, especially the Grandstand Show. Get the general admission ticket and stand on the tarmac in front of the stage - you will be right in front of the performers.

I am specifically posting this review on the rides and especially on the fast pass they are selling. It is a complete rip off. You will still wait 3 hours in a line up to get on the ride!

We came here the the stampede event. Parking is $25 however if you come early you can get parking at the resident area and park for free. Free entrance is from 11-1:30pm. This event pretty much like the Los Angeles county fair we have back home but a bit cooler since they have the rodeo show and some other cowboy related things. On the food side it wasn't much variety as the one in LA. I was a bit disappointed since most of the food stay are poutine related!!! But there was still plenty of food for us to stuff ourselves!!! If it wasn't because of the rain we would have stayed a bit longer. Overall, if you have a chance come and check them out.

Love the Stampede. There are really wicked food here. Each year it gets crazier with the junk food, I heard. This year 2017 is ghost pepper pizza. I can't take spicy. So at the beginning of the stampede there is a parade. The parade marks the opening. So went in with friends. Went and saw a bunch of things. cowboy and cowgirl challenge. The rodeo is one of the big shows. Also there is concert every night. At the end of the night there is the fireworks and that is astonishing. Overall, I had a great time.

Huge crowds yesterday! Special shout out to Steve (special events) who went out of his way to make sure we found our way to meet friends! So much to see, do, enjoy! The rodeo is fantastic though the seats are tight! Good luck trying to get in and out if you are in the middle. Long lines everywhere and patience definitely needed. If you want peace and quiet try western oasis. Beautiful art! For a more lively venue try Nashville!

Bad & really weird food. Paying to watch animals being tortured and dragged across the ground was great. Music was from another century literally. A bunch of people thinking they were in saloon times was great!

An annual pilgrimage as a born and raised Calgarian. Even when I lived in Toronto for almost 5 years I still seemed to end up back in Calgary most summers in time for this 10-day city-wide takeover. While things on the grounds don't change very much year to year, there's always a draw. It might be the new deep fried foods, the rodeo, all that crap you don't need inside the Roundup (BMO) Centre, or the chance at being that guy lugging around the giant prize from the midway. Outside the grounds there's always a ton going on elsewhere downtown and around the city. If you're paying for breakfast during Stampede, you're doing it wrong.

I really enjoy the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede grounds. The Stampede is the biggest event that is held on these grounds every year for 10 long and wonderful days where the city is shut down. However, throughout the year this space is used for many other things such as event including: Octoberfest, Calgary Home and Garden Show, Calgary Flames Games, Calgary Hitmen Games, Calgary Roughneck Games, etc. Parking can be a little expensive on these grounds, which I understand some people complain about, however it is because the city wants to encourage people to take the train to be environmentally friendly. The city and stampede is great at keeping the area clean and after the 10 days it looks as though Stampede was never there :)

I went to the stampede for first time this year (2018) and it was an incredible experience! There are so many awesome concerts, new food to try (if you're daring enough), rides galore, rodeo, and so much more! I had an absolute blast for the 3 days that went! The only problem was how overpriced it all is. Its a 20$ entrance fee and that doesn't cover anything over then walking around, a day pass for rides is 60$, food is all insanely expensive (cheapest water I could find was 8$ and it was 32 degrees out) and the rodeo prices vary depending on what you want to see! I strongly suggest going if you get the chance, just don't be surprised if by the end of the day you've dropped 100$+

The day after the Calgary Stampede is always the hardest. Back to making your own pancakes. Back to not wearing cowboy regalia. Back to drinking on the socially-accepted days. But before we know it-- it will be Stampede 2016 soon enough. I was excited to go to the Stampede this year because the Midway had tons (aaandd, I mean TONS) of food options. Usually, I stick to the classics-- giant corn dog with warm mustard-- from the hot sun not from a spice, but this year I wanted to be a little more adventurous. I ate: corn on the cob, cotton candy, a huge bacon-wrapped hot dog, deep-fried Snickers bar, deep-fried Oreos and (of course) mini donuts! I also drank the freshly squeezed lemonade because it is a must-have! So let's talk about the deep-fried goodies! I bought the calorie-rich Snickers bar AKA heaven on a stick for about $7! I think they've been around for a few years, but this was my first time trying it. I really, really, really, really loved it! It was warm, gooey and really filling. I think I would have been satisfied for a few hours but for the price of admission-- I was definitely there to eat. It was the perfect treat to indulge on amidst the bright lights, bustling cowpokes and electric carnival scene. The deep-fried Oreos was also amazing. For $6-- I received 6 Oreos, which I think is a reasonable price. They were very delicious, I never knew you could deep fry cookies or candy bars, but I am glad some ambitious person saw a deep fryer and thought "Hey, let's deep fry an Oreo. Oh, you know what? That was good. Let's deep fry a Snickers bar." My stomach thanks you for your innovation, my friend. According to the Calgary Stampede blog, there were tons of free thinkers of the food world. Check out the other food options: http://www.calgarystampede.com/stampede/attractions/food This year I relied on the Calgary Stampede app for food options and locations, but I found it a bit difficult to navigate in the crowds and it took a long time to load. I think next year I will research the food options beforehand because that Dragon Dog (or the $100 Hot Dog) is just calling my name.

For my birthday my husband and I went down to Calgary to visit the Stampede for the weekend. It was my first time visiting Calgary and i found the entire city absolutely gorgeous! I wish we lived there as I absolutely love the rolling hills, nearby mountains and lush trees. It reminds me of my hometown of Pittsburgh, but cleaner. As for the Calgary Stampede, it was our first time attending the event and we were there for the entire time on the first day. Im a city girl, so I was amazed to see all of the beautiful horses and other farm animals up close and actually touch them. The Super Dogs show was entertaining and cute. Later in the evening we attended a Chuck wagon race and saw the Grand Stand show that was entertaining and spectacular. I only got on one ride and that was enough for me. I find that as I'm getting older amusement park/carnival rides make me feel ill. As for the food, it was expensive and not healthy but it tasted so good! We went back to the Stampede grounds the following Sunday early in the morning. Admission was free until 9 am if I recall correctly and there was a free pancake breakfast. Everybody and their mama was there. Around noon it was so jam packed that it was difficult to walk around with out squeezing and pushing through and around people. We really enjoyed our weekend trip to the Calgary Stampede and I had a fun, memorable birthday!

Woo, Stampede! Everyone loves to whine about Stampede like they're the first ones to do it. But just like people that gripe about how Mothers Day is a greeting card company manufactured holiday, I tune them out. Because, even though I dislike steep prices combined with mediocre food, what I dislike even more is a party-pooper. Even though they're mandatory to invite. You know the song: Every party needs a pooper That's why we invited you... the party pooper! For what it is, Stampede is alright. What the hell are people expecting? A red carpet? Champagne and kisses? It's a ten-day-hootenany based on celebrating rodeos and western livin'. Any high expectations for anything other than a boozy good time all over the city; are too high. As someone with a young niece and teenage nephew, I personally love seeing the joy on their faces at Stampede. It reminds me of when I was that age and all the fun I had at the State Fair. Mind you, I don't love it at all I think of the annual animal cruelty, but I don't go to the rodeos or chuckwagon races. This year, I gave in to the urge to have something unhealthy and deep-fried and as a result; got the world's most disgusting chips - complete with a deep-fried moth that had fallen in to the fry oil. When I complained, the woman shrugged her shoulders and said: "I'm sorry, we do our best to shoo all the bugs away, but they keep getting in the oil." When I complained louder and started posting the photo on twitter and encouraging others to do the same, she gave me my money back. --- What I enjoy the most about Stampede, is how it brings people together. Whether it's for pancakes, the parade, the fireworks, or meeting up with friends and family to spend way too much $$$ on rides; I really love the camaraderie. And I love all the western wear. Actually, I only love the western wear on day one and two. If you're going to wear that plaid shirt and wranglers 10 days in a row; wash that ish :). Oh, and pack a poncho, hand sanitizer, a hat, some water and sunscreen!

In the world of rodeo, the Calgary Stampede is a the pinnacle of the sport and a serious deal. A Grand Slam tour event, the best of the best compete for top honors in the sport. Aside from traditional rodeo, the Chuck wagons races are crowd favorites and the grand spectacle is of similar quality to a top Las Vegas show, followed by a magnificent fireworks display. Ah but the food. Well what can I say, one delicious offering after another :-). Deep fried Oreos, Twinkies, Snickers, Pizza on a Stick, Bacon wrapped pork belly, double bacon wrapped corn dogs, pork belly and other Poutine, giant hot dogs, Turkey legs and the usual burgers, barbeques, sweets, pizzas etc. Top entertainers perform nightly. Quite a good time!

New to Calgary, this is actually our second time at Stampede ever. We have yet to make it in to see a Rodeo (not pining to do so but everyone else seems to love them) and we refuse to go into Cowboys tent as that just looks like a yahoo-mess with people over-indulging in pretty much everything. We love to walk around these things, take in the one man bands walking around, check out the buildings, animals, temp. casino set-up and the FOOD STANDS. One can find everything edible on a stick these days here. Watching people trying to bite into the Turkey Legs are a hoot too. We are childless so no rides for us. My hubby is a self admitted wimp and while I have been on many a roller coaster in my younger days, I have no need any longer to trust my life to some rubber band, crazy glue bound, creaking piece of machinery. Watching people zip line through the air above the Fair as I call it was kind of cool. Many of the workers in their little stalls on the pre-opening day looked kinda tired and frazzled at the same time knowing that they have 10 more days of this nightmare working 16 hours per day. Many were from Ontario, the ones we met and spoke to. The Fair is expensive. We played a couple of games and they average about $4-$5 a game per person. That is a lot for a 25 cents stuffed snake that will end up in a garbage bag in your basement with all the other ones. Crown and Anchor has even gone up to a $2 bet minimum! Remember guys when it was 25 cents to place a bet on Spades? Food, $$$, small corndogs $5, candy apple $4.75, popcorn $4. I have a friend in town who brought her husband and 3 little girls to Stampede. They are going to take it in almost daily and they are all geared up in new cowboy wear. I cannot imagine the cost AND staying in a downtown hotel for 2 weeks on their very modest salaries! YIKES! We are not much for crowds so it was nice to go on the Sneak Peek Day (Jul 5) with free passes someone gave us to see the grounds. They were set up pretty much like last year. We tried just about every junk food there was, just a bite or 2 each, but we drew the line at the deep fried cheesecake. We do not follow the Fair agenda, do not see the shows, we just like to walk around and around and people watch - and again, EAT! The traffic is bonkers so if you can avoid driving downtown to get there - do so. Even if you have to take a cab - let someone else deal with the madness. Overall, the Fair brings back childhood memories, sights, sounds, smells and we may go back one more time before it ends. We do not dress like people/the cowboys we are not but hey - I bought a hat and good thing I did as the rain pelted down last night pretty hard sending everyone for cover and shutting down the Fair. The Fireworks at 11pm were a nice touch as a Fair opener. I think the main thing is if everyone could just control their alcohol intake, the place would be a little happier and safer place to be. Drunks are just so annoying. See ya there maybe but not anywhere near the beer gardens - like Cowboys, not our thing but I guess the money has to be made somewhere. Beer - just a simple Budweiser can = $6.75 plus tip. Reeeeediculous. Robbery. The Fair though is very clean, there are always people sweeping and picking up garbage. It is mind blowing how many volunteers are working the Fair and we are very grateful for them making our experience a better one.

Full disclosure: I volunteer with the Calgary Stampede. As such, I've agonized for a while now figuring out how to write a review here, for I wouldn't want to be perceived as having a conflict of interest. Since this is the business listing for Calgary Stampede Headquarters rather than the event itself, and because I don't work for CS&E, I'll write my review based on the perspective as a volunteer who has to use this building as a place to hold meetings. There are multiple meeting rooms here that are available to volunteers to host meetings, but they have to be booked by staff liaisons or by calling reception. Meeting rooms can be found in the basement, the main floor, and the second floor, although the basement level meeting rooms can't be catered with hot meals as catering can't easily get down there, so make sure you keep that in mind if you're making your room selection. Note that if you book a meeting room for the evening on the second level, it's not unusual for Vern (the CEO, at least as of this writing) to drop in to have a friendly chat with your group and to see what's up as his office is on the same level. Personally, I believe he's on a hunt for Stampede Cookies, so if you've ordered some for your meeting, be prepared to share. ;-) Random Board members may drop by too upstairs, so be prepared to exercise that Western Spirit & Hospitality at a moment's notice. It's interesting the types of people that you can randomly meet inside this building. Parking is free behind the building for staff and volunteers. If security asks, you'll have to provide the name of your committee and where you're meeting, but they only do this to ensure that there's enough slots available for the staff and volunteers that need them (which is important when there's another major public event on-Park like a Flames game or large tradeshow). They've recently implemented a policy to lock down the building after 5 p.m., but you can get security to let you in remotely by pressing the door buzzer at the top of the main entrance in front (Hint: Look up. It looks like a door bell button) or by giving Security a call on the phone. Of course, it being "Security," you'll need to identify yourself and have a valid reason for getting in. If you need to book a room for after hours (i.e. the weekend), you'll need to budget to hire security so for this venue, it's best to try to book your meeting room for business hours. All in all, as a volunteer, HQ is a great place to host a meeting (not to mention free) so if you were looking for a meeting place to host your team, if you weren't aware of it by now, you should give HQ a try.

This is an EXPERIENCE! If you're in Calgary during the Stampede (but not necessarily FOR the Stampede), you need to take the time to go and experience all the Exhibition Center has to offer. They've got carnival games, great food, and entertainment. You won't be disappointed!

We went to the chuckwagon races here. While the races themselves were very entertaining, the grandstand show was truly spectacular. I would go back just for that!! We tried several foods throughout the park, which were all tasty! We also could not get over the cleanliness of the park! Back in the states, at similar events, the place would be filthy! Very impressed! I look forward to coming back in the future!

I was hear for the once every two year Oil and Gas Expo. The facility is great for the shear fact that it is this large to handle all of the vendors, exhibitors and spectators. Having been here a couple of times now, I have become more familiar with the various food offerings at this facility. To be honest, there needs to be more, as the shear volume of people is more than is able to be supported at this facility. As always being connected to the tram line is a great plus and gets people back and forth to the downtown area. Parking leaves something to be desired and if you are the one who is parking their car, prepare yourself for over 1 hour wait's just to get out the parking area's. Take the train, much better option. Lastly, bring a good pair of walking shoes as you will need them for the shear size of the exhibition and pavillion area's.

The Stampede is great for all ages and all cultures. Every day is a bit unique and lots to see and do. Tip: If you are on a budget or have a family with kids, the best days to go are Free admission family days on Sundays. As Long as you can put up with the crowds. You can start your day early (kids are always up early anyways) with a Free pancake breakfast and Free admission for the entire family. Lots of great entertainment all day. With a family of 6, that's huge. It just means you spend more money on food and activities. Parking tip: Downtown Calgary has Free street parking on Sundays so that's another added bonus if you need to drive. Otherwise, the train is the best way to get to Stampede.

Let's put this out there right now that lots of people don't seem to understand: - The Stampede is very expensive - A lot of people are drunk there (at any time of day) - Rides and passes cost a lot unless you grab the discounts - There are a ton of people there - Everyone is going to be pretending to be a cowboy/cowgirl - You are going to have to wait in line for almost everything Basically, if you go there without expecting all of these, you're going to have a bad time. The Stampede is one of the largest outdoor shows in Canada and is an event that many people look forward to each year. The large gathering of people come to enjoy the rides, shows, and food all available at this time. Younger people also appreciate the increase in night-life and take advantage of it nearly every night. To have a successful and enjoyable Stampede experience you should probably go with a few people and realize that regardless of when you go there are going to be lines. You have to expect to pay far above the regular cost of anything to do/get it. If you want to party and have a few drinks, have a bunch BEFORE you go to the grounds. Also consider partying off of the grounds, because all of Calgary's bars and nightclubs get very busy. If you are looking to do more of the rides, go to them later in the day right before they close as the lines will be a lot shorter. My recommendations for things to do and see at the Stampede are: - Rodeo - Chuckwagon Races - Grandstand Show - Rides - Super Dogs (free with entry) - Coca Cola Stage Music Performers (free with entry) - Carnival Food (mini doughnuts are a must) - Fireworks! (They are technically for the Grandstand show but if you find a spot on the bridge just south of the Grandstand you can still get a great view) Things I do not do at the Stampede: - Buy lots of alcoholic drinks - Attempt to get into any of the bar/club tents If you want the true Stampede experience, you have to go in with the right mindset and then you will have a great time. Updated: Added fireworks (I can't believe I forgot the fireworks!)

I think the Stampede gets a really bad rep from a lot of Native Calgarians. Once upon a time, I too had a hate-on for everything Cowboy, I lamented never making it to the Rock Central (Anti) Stampede Breakfast and I did my best to avoid the inner city or be out of town entirely for two weeks of the year. I spent the better part of my teenage and young adult years cynical and anti-country, doling out much of what the negative reviews on this board say. And then one day, after what was getting close to a decade I went back. And I liked it. There is a secret to my liking the Stampede. I take it with a grain of salt. It is what it is, a giant western-themed party that gives Calgarians an identity and makes Cowtown what it is. Is it particularly authentic? Well, yes and no. The "festival" proper has a lot of really intriguing elements - the giant fun park, the livestock shows and of course the rodeo! I think people forget that the Stampede is meant to be an exhibition for farming and western culture, and while that doesn't exist legitimately within the city boundaries it is alive and kicking within Alberta. The Stampede IS a big deal for the ranchers and farmers that make up a great deal of rural Alberta, and it is a big deal across the world too. It is partly authentic, just not authentically Calgarian (anymore). But you know what? I think it's fun to play Cowboy. Everybody who is actually a cowboy already knows it, and everybody else gets to have fun and play to their idea of the "wild west". And that means rides and drunken forays in the beer gardens and catching the rodeo if you can. It means freshly fried corn dogs (freshly fried anything!) and giant turkey drumsticks, and dressing like a cowboy. It means checking out the village with the Tipis and exploring Native culture a little more in depth than you would otherwise get. It means the huge exhibition hall with all the weird stalls selling things you don't really need. It means the smelly stank of the agricultural building that us city folk rarely get to experience. There are the Grandstand shows which often feature popular bands on the crappy soundstage, where you stand on fences to see. Bonding with your friends on the rides, and melting into the grass because it is so, so hot and you wish you didn't have to pay for water. Hey, nothing's perfect! It's really crowded and a little bit lame, but there is nothing else like it. The Stampede is a celebration for Calgary, a means for letting loose. It tries to fit into a million different demographics and that doesn't always work. It is expensive, it is one of Calgary's cash cows. It doesn't change that much from year to year - new acts, new clowns, maybe a new ride if you're lucky. It is ridiculous in an utterly awesome way.

Everyone handles the Calgary Stampede differently. I'm reviewing the Calgary Stampede based on the following criteria: I was born and raised in Calgary. I do not go to bars or nightclubs in my past-time so I don't care for the alcoholism encouraged at the grounds. I enjoy festivals such as Folk Fest and attending art galleries, art openings... hanging out in bookstores, that sort of thing; I like the Artist Ranch Project within the Western Showcase in the BMO Center. I like good food and I like to make my own food... I like to grow my own food and I also like gardening. I've spent 20 years of my life on an acreage. That's me, and this review is based on my thoughts. I understand the importance of knowing where your food comes from, and I've read books/watched many documentaries about food vs. corporate control. Despite the agriculture tents being at the Stampede, where attendees are supposed to go to "educate themselves" about Alberta's food industries... nobody seems to be talking about important contemporary issues such as genetically modified Canola, or the true condition industry animals (laying hens, dairy cows, meat animals, etc) are kept in. There should be a farmer's market at the Calgary Stampede, not a tent full of logos and displays sponsored by the major corporations which control the agriculture industry. There should be a bigger focus on organic (like free range, grass-fed, etc) and eating local in my opinion. Problem is... there aren't a whole lot of farmers left in Alberta; most of the young generation has packed up and left to work on the oil rigs or in corporate Downtown Calgary. Our city is changing but the Stampede is stagnating. I don't like that the Calgary Stampede portrays a sort of "idyllic Western life" to out of town visitors. I'm more of a realist, so... propaganda and I do not get along. As for "the rest of it"... once you've seen one grandstand show, you've seen them all. Same with the rodeo stuff (I'm not a supporter of the Rodeo and "all that" quite frankly). Many people I talk to (even those who, dare I say, are more conservative than I) are feeling that the Stampede is not worth their time anymore. It's too expensive, monotonous and full of skeezy teenagers who are wearing practically illegal clothing items. As a teenager, I used to attend the midway religiously just to go on the rides all day but as an adult, I feel that Stampede is a big facade. Perhaps some may read my review and call me bitter but I wish that the Calgary Stampede would grow up, just like I did. I'm more disappointed with it than anything. Update: I attended this year to see the Western Art Showcase and also to sample the deep-fries Oreos (as per a friend's suggestion; I would give Western Showcase 3 or 4 stars based on reviewing that venue alone). Needless to say, the moment the Oreos hit my stomach, I was not feeling well. I won't be doing that again. Also, I went during the evening on a Friday night (8 pm - close) and the sheer amount of skeeziness put on display by teenagers was overwhelmingly depressing. It was certainly not a good time (or place) for children to be around. I left Stampede feeling very disheartened. I also had a difficult time finding parking, so I must criticize the Stampede venue for not building a huge parkade. They rake in so much money year after year, and they get government funding (tax payers dollars, believe it or not), but can't build a parkade? Give me a break. I'd like to see exactly where their (our) money goes thank you very much. I attempted to park in a private lot just across the street from a Stampede lot ($20) and the owner of the private lot took down his $20 sign and attempted to charge me $40 because "he had just one spot left". This sort of scamming should not be allowed to happen during Stampede or anytime of the year. Shameful!

Oh the Calgary Stampede. I would like to prelude this by saying that this review is exclusively in response to my experience inside the Nashville North tent which comprised my entire 2-day experience of the esteemed Calgary Stampede. That said; feel free to take this with a grain of salt. Furthermore, I would like to apologize in advance to any Canadians or straight-laced innocents that I may offend while relaying the lascivious offenses I witnessed during my brief stint at this wild western orgy disguised as a rodeo. Being a wild one myself and always enjoying any reason to walk around with reason in public clad in boots and a cowboy hat, the stampede had been on my bucket list for awhile. Imagine my sheer joy when my best friend from college moved up to Edmonton and invited my to join her at this year's stampede. I hastily purchased plane tickets and began putting together the perfect ensembles. I flew into Edmonton on Wednesday and spent a few lovely days with my girlfriend before we drove up to Calgary Friday morning for 2 full-days of stampede madness. Upon entering the Nashville North stampede tent at approximately 11:30am every cowboy hat-clad boy and girl was...sloppy drunk. Eager to jump on the sloppy drunk caravan I scooted on over to the bar to find that there was no hard alcohol allowed in the tent- only shit beer and weird blue coolers. I went with shit beer, which, truth be told, didn't taste quite so shitty after I managed to gulp down the first 4 or 5. I proceeded to get pretty sloshed, but even the foggiest of beer goggles could not shield, prepare, or allow me to be receptive me to the utter debaucherousness I was about to be forced to partake in. I look to my left and I see a man on his stag (apparently this is what they call a bachelor party in Canada) sans wedding ring receiving fillacio from a girl he met 10 minutes prior while the members of his bachelor party stand around him in a semi-circle guarding him from flashing cameras. I look to my right and see fingers disappearing on the dancefloor beneath strangers skirts. Then to my surprise I suddenly feel my feet lifted in the air and realize that I have been tossed over a strangers shoulder and am being CARRIED onto the dance floor. I thought to myself, well this isn't so bad- this stranger is actually pretty cute so I let him set me down on my feet and I proceeded to dance with him- BIG MISTAKE. Within 5 minutes of being twirled around the dance floor the drunken cowboy proceeds to kiss me and when I resisted proceeds to grab my neck and try to force his Budweiser-dripping tongue down my throat. In comes the fight scene, and by fight scene I mean me beating the cowboy with my hat before quite literally running off the dance floor in horror. As the night got longer the men got more drunken-hulk like aggressive with over half the male population quite literally tearing their shirts off and abandoning the remaining shreds of fabric off the floor. Interesting fact, apparently it's very popular for the men at this event to take some drug named "G" which is actually short for GHB, you know, the date rape drug. Apparently when men take it they turn into the over-sexed patrons of the Calgary stampede. So in conclusion, if I had to sum up stampede it would be a giant orgy filled with horny zombies where everyone is required to wear western-inspired party cloths and leave their morals and sense of social mores at home in exchange for a multiple-day stint of exchanging partners and diseases. It was an experience which left me shocked and feeling mildly victimized.

If I were to sum up Stampede 2016 in one word it would be "astonishing." People have their ups and downs when it comes to stampede but hey they're always entitled to their own opinion. Did you know? With the release of Pokémon Go there are a few Pokéstops on the grounds and a few Pokémon around but if you're planning to play during stampede then I strongly suggest that you do it after Stampede where the grounds are open and free. Out of the 10 days of Stampede my girlfriend and I went twice, the first and last day. Although she did work at Stampede we actually took the time to work around both our schedule. One thing I like about Stampede is that there is always returning food vendors and new food to try out! Yes Stampede can and will drain your money but if you don't gamble to win it back then you would need to budget yourself. The best place to gamble would be at Over and Under, although there are other places to gamble O&U is the number one hot spot. If you plan your visit properly you can cover a lot of ground on a half day (starting at 3 or 4pm) from shows to rides to games to food yes there are A LOT of things to do but it's always about the timing and the line ups. My plan for this Stampede was to watch one show but both times that we went we missed it and always arrive when the show was over. One thing I notice was the fireworks display was always starting at 11:05pm, they do one test shot the start doing the actual display. The other thing I noticed is starting at around 10:300m rides do get longer. We were happy that our visit was a success and we are excited for next year!

So the 2016 Calgary stampede is a rainy one....I was to go on Friday and it rained all day. So decided to go on Saturday...still it rained. However it was very enjoyable bought my Nellie's laundry, and their cute stuffed sheep, seen awefully huge horses, got to look at pretty sheeps. I'm glad the agri building is not as stinky as it used to be...they have a proper building Now... Then went to midway try to find the dog show...it was going towards the agri building. Omg....it was amazing...the tricks they did... I think the dogs are kinda skinny since can see the ribs...but thats how it is when they are rescued..maybe he is new to the pack..I can see they love the dogs.. Amazing.. The best part was the doggie jump onto the pool 27 ft. And grabbed the device...amazing Then, went to buy my usual dog car decor, and a bandana for my baby pooch. Oh, the only thing I ate in the midway was deep fried coffee it was pretty good...with FRAP..aside from the rain....it was a pretty good time... And spent $100 only....or less...so happy...until next year..happy stampeding! Yahoo

Having been out of the city for the last 5 years, I was ready to explode with excitement when I decided to come back to town just in time to catch this year's Calgary Stampede. Having gone EVERY SINGLE YEAR growing up, I'm not sure WHAT I was expecting, but everyone had told me that it had just gotten bigger & better. Uh...No. It's exactly the same as it has been every other year, and promises of it having expanded were false. Also, now that I've broadened my horizons and read 'Skinny Bitch' cover to cover, I now know that there is a REASON that Alberta Pork sponsors all the little piglets in the 'cute little petting zoo'. I guess I finally put two and two together and my heart was officially broken. Let's not forget that in the first 4 days of Stampede, 5 animals were put down due to injuries. Let's face it - The Calgary Stampede has turned into an exhibition that supports animal cruelty. For this reason alone, The Stampede has lost my support altogether.

I have attended the Stampede a half a dozen times as a child and later on in my adolescence. Just recently I have gone again and let me just say how much it sucked. Other than the obvious observation of a bigger theme park of ridiculous things to do, it just seems like a glorified food fare. It is expensive and it is crowded, the sea of cowboy hats don't resonate anything emotional nor nostalgic for me. I don't want to see a dream house of an obvious "burb" home and even more purchase a ticket to win the damn thing. I don't want to listen to country music or buy a ticket to have to listen to it, nor do I want a giant pretzel with salt. The only thing I like about the Calgary Stampede is the corn dogs with mustard but I can buy these at half the cost with a hot dog vender on the street during a regular city day. There was a lack of Stampede spirit this year downtown, I didn't even know the Stampede was in town, plus Calgary saw a downfall of folks travelling out of town in motor homes to visit our fair city. Perhaps it was because of our economic times or perhaps, the Calgary Stampede needs to reinvent itself, to include a more ethnic population and to get with modern times, wake up Calgary Stampede its 2009!!!

The Calgary Stampede is a tradition in this city. For those who come from afar they come with the expectations of the wild west, cowboys cowgirls and alot of partying. I am not going to review all aspects of this event other than to say that: I certainly do not think it is "The greatest outdoor show on earth" and it saddens me that every year animals die in the name of entertainment. Since 1986 until today in 2010 39 horses and one steer have died all in the name of "entertainment". I am a vegetarian, and certainly not an animal rights fanatic, but I do think that this is unacceptable cruelty. In the craziness of the drinking and partying, please do not forget the animals. I would say that the real greatest outdoor show on earth is an hour drive away in the majestic rocky mountains....those are the memories I would like visitors to our province to take home with them.

I have been attending this yearly event since I was a wee little tot. My personal tastes have changed throughout my formative years (as they do for everyone), but I find that, what I used to enjoy, I now find overcrowded, expensive and mildy scary. More specifics? Okay. First of all, it is always seriously crowded during the mid-day, so it's better to go enjoy it early in the morning while others are still sleeping. They only allow free admission before 10am because most of the park is still closed and just starting to open, so there's less to enjoy then. Secondly, though I admire the uniqueness of the food (pizza on a stick, deep-fried pickles, etc.) the prices are to die from!! Bring lots & lots of money if you want to eat. Thirdly, I heard that they moved the Superdogs to the Big Four, but they have refilled their space in the Corral with the Rock & Roll Ice Fantasy. Though the seating for this event was really awkward, the show itself was totally worth every minute. I reccomend it ;) Midway games are fun but not cheap. If you want that huge plush toy, come financially prepared. I can see the rides look like fun, but I warn that they are not safe. Enjoy them, but know you are gambling with your life...who else remembers the newscasts of the ride that broke down during it's run in 2010? The indoors are just as fun as the outdoors if you ask me (and even if you don't). There are lots of shows (some require tickets) and exhibit halls. They can get crowded when it rains, but typical it really is hours of fun. All in all, this venue is great exercise. And though I don't consider myself a country gal, I do basically enjoy the denim fashions & amped up country music of this 10-day week. However, I do agree with the statement that it's tragic about the rodeo, and the animals that tragically lose their lives every year. Could the Calgary Exhibition and Stampede exist with a country-western midway and NO rodeo? Just wondering....

"The greatest outdoor show on earth" That's what they said. "Meh, cowboys like bragging" that's what I thought before going. "Wowo~ Alberta is a rich baby" that's what I thought after the show... It's my first time experiencing stampede culture. So I might be over impressed. But the stampede park is truly huge and full of fun and surprises, corral show, rodeos, poutines, BBQs... It's crowded on the first day, but no chaos at all. There was a volunteer to help for every five meters. Can't judge if it's the greatest show on earth but it's an Olympic level event for sure.

I went down to the 2018 Calgary Stampede grounds on parade day and it really nice to get in free . You had to get there before 1:30 pm and it was really nice that the grounds were not super packed like on the annual Sunday Family day! It was extremely hot - around 30'C (near baked & I got sun burned) and I was so glad I took a knapsack and brought - 2 frozen water bottles, baseball hat, a parasol for shade , sunscreen , and some snacks. I went with my brothers and nephew and we had a fun day playing games, toured the dream home and walked about enjoying stampede stuff. I found the Weadickville park area still pricey on food items and even the food court in the Big Four building. There was an area that had several grill food stands and it looked most delicious ! Not exactly cheap either ... but hey... stampede comes once a year and money is made to be spent and enjoyed... I'm not a ride person but people were having a blast ! Prizes were same as previous years - pokamon stuffies, dogs, bears and I liked this years hamster stuffy with a cookie and a triceratops bear. I was done once I won those at the water gun game. You could win it if you won twice . Games were cheaper if you bought tickets at Safeway or Costco... otherwise it was about $5 a game for kids & adults or $3 for Birthday game. I can't believe my 8 year old nephew picked August as his choice and won 2 huge stuffies and only played twice. There is a Free game by Weadickville by WestJet to play for various WestJet prizes. There was also a Heinz ketchup trailer close to the Dream home area that you could get a movie clip done with your face on it... and your photo done on a glass bottle of Heinz ketchup ! I thot that was kinda cool ... my husband thought it was funny seeing my face on a ketchup bottle . I got my little nephew one done so he could give it to his mom. This was all free and so was your souvenir bottle! Bought house lotto tickets and 50/50 draw tickets. There was an also an Air miles stand next to the Heinz trailer where you need your air miles card to scan, take your yahoo picture and get a lucky prize ... I got a $15 Shell gas card!!! Whoo Whoo... Country 105 had a stand to the right of the dream home and gave us free DVD movie, country music CD, and a cold beer can sleeve shaped like cowboy boot. Lots to see and do - animal displays galore, shopping in the BMO building, free shows and music , food everywhere till you explode and people watching if that's your thing. If you pack a lunch, it's a fun outing with all the kiddies ! My brothers family packs a cut up huge Lumberjack sub only $10 from Safeway, fruit, snacks & drinks and feeds his whole family while having a great time ! You don't have to break the bank to enjoy the stampede - go on a free day and get outta the house! So what.... if you walk all day and feel crippled next day - your kids will love you, and you've made memories...Have Fun....Yahoo!!!

The Stampede is a fun adventure - the grounds are okay but the tents is where its going down. Hit the rodeo hit some tents, ignore the vendors, Skip this years grandstand show 2014 "the barn burner" was horrible just wait for 11 to see the fireworks Yep

Some of the other reviewers have stated very well the essential elements of any review - to wit - the Stampede doesn't change from year to year, and there really is no excuse for complaining if by now you don't understand what it is all about. It is expensive, crowded, and most certainly not for everyone. Drunkenness may seem rife, and sadly, more and more young girls seem to think that "dress Western" is synonymous with "dress like a prostitute". There are, however, sufficient activities to appeal to just about anyone, and of course, some things in life you go to just for the atmosphere. Some activities I don't see mentioned in many reviews are the commercial displays in the Big Four building, which was often one of my favourite things to do, seeing new products and hearing the hawkers go through their spiels. I don't know if anyone mentioned the annual entrepreneurial spririt of the Victoria Park residents, who charge "humble" fees for parking in their yards and driveways, a grand Stampede tradition that needs to be experienced to be believed. My last experiences on the Grounds were as part of the Canadian Forces weapons and recruiting displays, which set up every summer for the 10-day run. The CF brings down reps from the three services (navy, army, air force) and often heavy equipment for people to look at and kids to crawl around on. Like it, love it, or hate it, the Stampede is part of our heritage. I may not walk through the gates, but I love the idea of the Stampede and think our city would be much poorer without it as part of the fabric of our community each year. It is far more than just the sum of its parts.

Yahoooooooo I love the stampede. What is not to love? 10 days of fun and the best show in the world. I always make a point to get down to the grounds a few times each year. To see the rodeo, go on rides, drink at Nashville North, see concerts and of corse to eat all that delicious food I would not normally eat. Hello mini donuts and deep friend Oreos!!!!! There is something special about Stampede. Maybe the buzz around the city and all the lovely tourists who come to visit and take part in the fun 10 days of chaos. Great for all ages and the best 10 days you can have!!!!!!

I wrote this review while wasted.. After a night at Nashville North. Nashville North: I'm afraid I just don't get it. I mean we all grew up with it, so it's business as usual to us, and it's so busy everyone thinks "this place has to be unreal", but if you were an immigrant with no previous idea of Western culture, you would have to think "these people are fucking retarded". I am gonna do my best to sum up my personal Nashville North experience. I jump in line. Line waiting is the most buzz killing activity known to man. You're squished in like a Mexican prisoner, but, unlike Mexican prison, you can't just piss on the floor and walk away. Nope after hours of pre drinking, you gotta hold it in and experience the battle of mind versus body. Your liquor wares off and you're stuck with this shared feeling of boredom among your friends. The only thing worse than a solo boredom is a team boredom, and THE LINE TAKES UP TO TWO AND A HALF HOURS!!! THAT'S A FUCKING LORD OF THE RINGS MOVIE - STANDING IN LINE! DOING NOTHING! But finally, you get to the front. You walk in the building and this unpleasant smell hits you like a stun grenade in Modern Warfare 3. You try and figure out what it is until you realize: "Oh yeah... It's chundy. Yep.. Chundy mixed with just a pinch of sweaty wanna-be cowboys that said "I don't care if it's 30 degrees outside and probably 35 in here, I'm rocking jeans and a flannel! WOOOO GO NASHVILLE!" The country music is blaring. I understand a lot of people like it, and most do during Stampede, but it's just not for me. I feel that when I'm out partying, I want to listen to something high energy, something you can't help but bob your head to. I'm here to have fun, and quite frankly, I don't wanna hear about how you got back from Iraq, your buddy died, your wife left you, you became an alcoholic, you crashed your truck into a handicapped kid and the worst part - the truck has a huge dent in it now. Give me Lil Jon repeating the same three sentences the entire song and going "YEAYA" and I'm good to go for the rest of the night. You walk up to the bar and see the sign: $6.50 - Budweiser. Do I get a free handjob with my beverage? Who's making these rules? My Jewish friend bought a drink and had to go home twenty minutes later because of a panic attack. Perhaps I didn't pay enough attention, but from what I could see, there were two types of shooters available: "Sex on the Beach" or "Strawberry Tequila". What is this, the junior high school mixer? Even a 10 year old would call you a pussy for taking a shot like that as a man. Anyways, I played the game. I bought drinks, I hung out, I two stepped with my friends (which probably looked about as devastating as a baby seal getting clubbed. I decked at least two random chicks in the face while trying to twirl my partner. I'm not even kidding). I sang along to country music and hung out in the smoke pit. At one point, my shorts got absolutely soaked by what I thought was a guy spilling his drink on me. I pushed him onto his bum and he ran away. I didn't realize until I got home and took my shorts off to discover brown chunks, that nope, it wasn't a drink. Homeboy threw up all over me. I was furious. After two hours, I'd had enough. I convinced some of my friends to go check out some rides. What better idea when you're wasted right? I hopped on the Fireball, sat down in the seat, and already started getting the spinnies. This was a terrible idea, and I knew I was gonna regret it, but there was no way I was jumping off the ride with a 9 year old followed by a bunch of hot chicks sitting behind me. It was a downward spiral from the moment the ride took off, with me holding my mouth and my friend Jake pushing my face in the other direction and screaming "DON'T YOU DO IT! DON'T YOU DO IT!!!" When the ride would go upside down he would scream "JUST DO IT NOW, THEN IT WON'T HIT US!". I got off the ride and projectile vomited $70 worth of liquor instantaneously. This was too much for me. I got on the train and headed home. And that was my night at Nashville North. The End

I love the stampede. A ten day city wide costume party and everyone in the world is invited :) I always make a point to get down to the grounds a couple of times each year. To see the rodeo where I cheer the loudest for the calf that can get away and watch in awe as cowboys wearing only the safety of chaps and a hat try for 8 seconds on a bucking horse. There is something special about the tradition of freshly squeezed lemonade paired with one of the many unusual dishes served to the masses every year -- from cockroach pizza to deep fried anything while walking through the midway. The free events around town during this week are awesome too! From square dancing on Stephen Ave to flapjacks served in every quadrant free for the masses. Finally, lets not forget the many marching bands that treat us all to a show -- my favorite being that Band of Outriders. They really help me live out my wish that I could have been a band kid too. Born and raised Calgarian, I can't remember a single year that the Stampede didn't find its way into my July -- even the summer I was in Latvia, I streamed the parade to be part of it all!

Oh the Calgary Stampede. If you've never been to Calgary or are planning a visit, the 10 days in July during which this event takes place are when you'll want come. There's a lot of work that goes into pulling off the "greatest show on earth." Thousands of volunteer hours, oodles of committees tackling different aspects of the event... I'm not sure anyone realizes just how much goes into the production. Anyone you know volunteering for any committee throughout the year... buy them a drink the next time you see them! I know a few good Yelpers who help keep those wheels going round... Stampede is one of those things you need to experience at least once. Heading to the rodeo, watching the chucks, walking through some of the exhibits on the grounds... and of course the almighty parade of products... There wasn't actually much disdain in that sentence, I do enjoy doing a walk through and seeing what gadgets everyone's getting all excited about. The midway has gotten a bit old... and a whole lot of expensive! Although for the foodie in you, the ridiculous finds at some of the food stands can be fun to explore. I really quite enjoy that the concerts on the Coke stage are still free with gate admission (that could very well be the thing for me that makes or breaks a 3 or a 4 star rating!). Or if you pop down before a certain time of the morning, free altogether :). And there are usually at least 2-3 acts I want to go see. Over the years, Stampede and I have found a common ground. I spend a couple of days checking things out, and then I go back a top my hill in Renfrew and watch their pretty fireworks night after night. Seems like a fair trade, yes?

I don't really understand the hype about the Stampede. If you've ever been to Capital Ex in Edmonton, it's the same thing but with Cowboy hats. However, there are less drunk shirtless beer bellies at the Stampede - which is worth 3 stars any day! It can be fun to walk around the grounds and hang out with friends. The rides are overrated though and everything is overpriced. But that's just the nature of the carnival game! If you've never been, I recommend going so you can check it out and you can buy some pretty freaking sweet cowboy hats there! Check it out if you can - but once is probably enough!

My first review below got cut off because of length but covers that you should go if you've never been, explains a bit about the city at the time and talks about have to save money. Stuff to see on the grounds: - The coke stage brings some fairly decent acts in annually and these are shown for free each night. This is often what will drag my but down to the grounds because admission is still less than most of these guys in concert. - The productions in the corral - Although Tails last year was not very good (and culturally insensitive to our native population....) it was still quite the technical production with some talented animals inthe ice shows the years before have been EXCELLENT. Better than most "ice shows" - it's like a concert on ice with acrobats and Olympians. I'm not sure what 2013 will feature but it's worth evaluating. This is also free with admission and a great deal because they are not low budget shows by any means. - The Bell pavilion often has some very cool acts. They've brought in world class acrobats that have worked in cirque du soliel shows, vegas acts, world record holders and amazing bmx shows in previous years. It always changes up but often is a highlight for me. Again, free with admission. - I like to wonder around the vendors at the roundup center. Sometimes they have cool things in there in addition to buying stuff. Last year you could give a go at surfing in a giant tank and when segways were new you could take a spin of an obstacle course. There always depends on who's willing pay to bring an attraction in but it can be interesting for a walk around. I wouldn't go into the roundup center without a smart phone though.... those fast talking sales people are making you deals that are more expensive than the real world at times. Occasionally you find something really neat for a STEAL. For example, my laundry washer balls is something I go specifically for when I know I have one ending it's life at home. - In the back of the roundup center there is the oasis which is an artist gallery. It blows me away at the talent we have around here. The wine tastings in recent years have been very nice - it's a bit of a tranquil garden in the middle of some stampede chaos. The kids crafts here are usually pretty neat - even I've given some a go and I don't take children down with me. - the midway is average - nothing special but something I always loved as a kid. As an adult I find tickets more cost effective because I don't spend my whole day on rides anymore and my last year with a wrist band I nearly made myself sick trying to get value off the band. - beer gardens - beer flows heavily at Stampede all around the city. If you want into the ground's gardens you better get there early. I've have friends that have stood in line for 2-3 hours for Nashville North and ultimately give up because they haven't gotten far enough through the line. Is it worth is? I've never ever been... If you do hit the clubs around the city expect lines, to be turned away for VIP events and to pay covers that are enormous. You'll find all kinds of places around the city setting up beer gardens and then selling passes like they are this grand event but it's not really... just a place to drink some beer and get goofy with tourists and people ducking out of work (WITH their bosses ;) ) My next update will be food and housing options for the stampede...

Every Calgarians Right of Passage is their first time at the Stampede. Tourists come to get drunk, eat greasy food and sleep in the street. Locals dress like hicks, brag about Calgary, get drunk and sleep in the street. Yes, there's the issue of Overpriced everything, as well as the few dozen who complain about it, but hell, it's fun. My only beef with the Stampede (hur hur, Beef. Stampede. Cows. I made a pun!) is the Rodeo, and that's because some poor animal always ends up getting injured and/or killed every year. ;__; Other than that, I'm a sucker for the mini donuts, deep fried food, and the rides.

Not sure what the big deal is about the Calgary Stampede but then again, I'm not from Canada. The Stampede reminded me of the annual OC Fair that we have in SoCal except with a rodeo, cowboy hats, and cowboy boots. The only difference that I saw was that they had mini donuts and I don't think we have mini donuts at the OC Fair. Entrance fee was pretty pricey and everything was fried there. I did really love the idea of the dream home and the fun raffles and prizes that you could win.

I can only do the Stampede on even years, for obvious reasons. It is a vulgar tribute to Alberta's heritage and too much of it will warp your brain. It's really hard to take sometimes; all these drunks vomiting and fighting dressed like they're out of some old western dime-store paperback. Even professional people around town dress like cowboys for 10 days in July because they are "in the spirit of things". But really they look like escaped mental patients. The rodeo aspect is fine. The Chucks are entertaining and you can usually get in on a few wagers in the stands. But that grandstand show is a spectacle nobody needs. It goes on for hours and those Young Canadians creep the hell out of me; with their freaky eyes and jazz hands...Weird. Anyway, the carnival is your typical carnival anywhere else and the food is typically disgusting. They soak rancid beef in that atrocious Bulls-Eye barbecue sauce (like we can't tell the difference) and charge hefty prices for beans. The rodeo is worth it though. Just leave when you start to spot a bunch of shiny midgets in cowboy regalia milling around the stage area. Get out quickly at that point and say nothing.....

Do I really need to tell you about the Stampede? I know, I know: expensive, same old-same old, crazy crowd of drunken wanna-be cowboys and girls ... Don't really care though. They have been consistently growing for over 100 years and have become one of Calgary's main attractions for a reason. That and more, plus the Free Stampede Breakfasts around the city and the western pride displayed during that week-and-a-half definitely merits 5 stars!