calgary-stampede

We danced with cowboys and watched insane rodeo tricks at Calgary Stampede, and we regret NOTHING!

I thought I was prepared for the Calgary Stampede, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer madness of it all: wild rodeo action, deep-fried everything, and a crowd of excited (and slightly sunburned) people all living their best Western lives. 

I didn’t know if I was at a rodeo, a concert, or a carnival—and honestly, I didn’t care! If you’ve ever wondered what the hype is all about, you’re in the right place. 

Get ready to saddle up and join me as we dive into everything the Calgary Stampede has to offer. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this! Keep reading to discover why the Stampede is the ultimate bucket-list event.

Best Time to Go to Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is held every July and is a 10-day celebration. In 2025, it will run from July 4 to July 13.

If you’re after the party atmosphere with the tents and festivities (like most people are), the best time to go is the first few days of the week-long event. For a slightly more relaxed experience, I recommend catching the chuckwagon races and rodeo later in the week. 

Things to Know

Tickets and Admission

You can buy general admission tickets at the park’s three entrances. However, we recommend that you purchase tickets in advance as it gets sold out pretty fast.

CategoryPricing
General (Age 13-64)$25
Seniors (Age 65+)$17
Child (Age 7-12)$16
Sneak-A-Peek$13

If you’re looking to save, consider the Value Days for free or discounted admission. It even comes with a free pancake breakfast. For those who are attending multiple events, we say go for the Two Day Thrill Ticket Package as it has excellent value.

Parking

Public Parking: Parking is $30 per entry, available at two main locations: North of the BMO Centre at Macleod Trail and 12 Ave and the 11 Ave lot, directly north of Stampede Park.

Reserved Parking: Pre-purchase a reserved parking spot for guaranteed availability and re-entry privileges on your selected date.

How to Get to the Calgary Stampede

By car: Drive to 2 St SW S/Barclay St SW, turn right onto 1 St SE S, then stay right to continue on Macleod Trail. Turn left onto 25 Ave SE, then left onto 3 St SE.

By public transit: Take the CTrain and get off at either Erlton or Victoria Park stations, both about 3 minutes from the venue.

By bike: Park at the Bike Compound and enter through the McDonald Gate on the east side to skip the entry lines.

Where to Stay near the Calgary Stampede

Alt Hotel

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Address: 635 Confluence Way SE

Phone: +1 587-441-6635

Pricing: $$

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Nestled in the heart of the city, the Alt Hotel is just a short stroll from the Calgary Stampede. Each room comes equipped with free Wi-Fi, HD TVs, en suite bathrooms, Keurig machines, and even yoga mats for a touch of zen.

The tech-savvy rooms are a game-changer—sleek, modern, and luxurious while keeping comfort front and center. Plus, the Nespresso machine and premium personal care products add a little extra indulgence to your stay. 

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown

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Address: 711 4 St. SE Suite A

Phone: +1 587-352-2020

Pricing: $$

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The Hilton Garden Inn Downtown offers cozy, fuss-free rooms with a welcoming atmosphere. Expect flat-screen TVs, minifridges, free Wi-Fi, desks, and tea and coffee-making facilities to make your stay hassle-free.

On-site perks include a laid-back restaurant, a chill lounge, and a well-stocked bar. Need a quick snack? There’s a convenience store. Want to stay active? The fitness room has you covered. Bonus: pets are welcome too!

Hotel Arts 

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Address: 119 12 Ave SW

Phone: +1 403-266-4611

Pricing: $$

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Art, design, top-notch service, and a sprinkle of whimsy—this hotel isn’t your typical stay. From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel the unique vibe that sets it apart.

 It boasts a stylish outdoor pool and bar with a retractable roof, perfect for any weather, plus a well-equipped fitness center.

Dining options include a chic bistro and a bar serving up contemporary Vietnamese cuisine. There’s also a seasonal outdoor pool, event spaces, heated underground parking, and complimentary cruiser bikes to explore the city in style.

Fairmont Palliser

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Address: 133 9 Ave SW

Phone: +1 403-262-1234

Pricing: $$$

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The Fairmont Palliser radiates timeless luxury, blending historic charm with modern comfort. With impeccable staff, spotless rooms, and top-notch room service, it’s a stay that feels truly special. 

Upscale rooms feature flat-screen TVs, minibars, and high-speed internet for a seamless experience. On-site highlights include an elegant bar and lounge, a cozy coffee shop, and a chic 1920s-themed restaurant.

Le Germain

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Address: 899 Centre St S

Phone: +1 403-264-8990

Pricing: $$$

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Le Germain delivers sleek, modern rooms decked out with goose-down comforters, minibars, flat-screen TVs, Nespresso machines, and free Wi-Fi for the ultimate in comfort and style.

Its unbeatable location puts you steps from a vibrant dining scene, a pedestrian-friendly street, and right across from the iconic Calgary Tower—yes, it’s that close. 

With top-notch amenities like a fully equipped gym and a luxurious spa, this hotel has everything you need for a refined and relaxing stay.

Where to Eat near the Calgary Stampede

Saddleroom Restaurant

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Address: 555 Saddledome Rise SE

Phone: +1 403-777-3694

Pricing: $

Website

Perched atop the Saddledome, this hidden gem on the Terrace level-East side is criminally underrated. At the Saddleroom Grill, every table is thoughtfully set with cutting boards, placemats, cutlery, plates, and glasses, creating a warm and inviting dining setup.

The Chef’s tasting menu, a delightful three-course experience, had us raving. Every dish was a masterpiece, cooked to perfection with a touch of sophistication, and the presentation is absolutely next level.

Presto Pizza

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Address: 1705 Macleod Trail SE

Phone: +1 403-215-2727

Pricing: $

Website

Presto Pizza might look unassuming, but it’s where we had the best pizza of our lives—seriously. Perfect for a late-night slice, it’s not just the pizza that stands out; the service is top-notch too.

The simple setup hides the magic of their cheesy, gooey masterpieces. Each slice gets a final sizzle right before your eyes, delivering fresh, piping-hot perfection every time.

Embarcadero Wine & Oyster Bar

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Address: 208 17 Ave SE

Phone: +1 403-263-0848

Pricing: $$

Website

Embarcadero Wine & Oyster Bar is the ultimate spot for happy hour oyster fans! During the season, their fresh East Coast P.E.I. oysters are unbeatable—big, firm, and bursting with flavor.

If you order during their happy hour, you can snag up to two dozen at a discount. Craving more? You can order another regular dish to score even more discounted oysters.

Melrose

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Address: Inside Cowboys Casino, 421 12 Ave SE

Phone: +1 403-984-0301

Pricing: $

Website

Since 1991, Melrose has been serving up legendary burgers made with AAA Alberta beef patties and fresh, local buns. Be sure to check out their daily specials on the website for the best deals and a chance to try everything on the menu.

We went for the smoked bacon burger with truffle fries, and let me tell you—the truffle fries and dip were incredible. With great vibes, excellent service, and an all-around fantastic experience, the revamped Melrose is a must-visit in Calgary.

bbq Chicken

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Address: 207 13 Ave SE

Phone: +1 587-351-1744

Pricing: $

Website

BBQ Chicken serves up some of the best Korean Fried Chicken around, offering unique recipes and an authentic range of Korean dishes. 

We tried all three chicken varieties—Soy Garlic, Gangnam Style, and Cheesling—and each one was absolutely delicious. If you’re into spicy food, the hot spicy chicken is a must-try! While we often take it to go, dining in is always a great experience too.

What to Do at the Calgary Stampede

Join the World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo at the Calgary Stampede Rodeo

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The Calgary Stampede boasts the World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo, where athletes and animals go head-to-head in six exciting events: barrel racing, tie-down roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc, bull riding, and bareback. 

If you’re looking for an awesome rodeo experience you got it right here! The action kicks off every afternoon at 1:30 p.m. and builds up to the big Showdown Sunday.

Watch Performances at the Calgary Stampede Evening Show 

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The Calgary Stampede Evening Show starts at 7:30 pm. You’ll hear the blast of a klaxon signaling the start of the Cowboys Rangeland Derby chuckwagon races.

Once the last wagon crosses the finish line, the crowd’s favorite Relay Races take over, showcasing top Indigenous Relay Racing teams. 

To wrap up the night, the Grandstand Show enchants with spectacular song and dance routines, acrobatics, and a grand fireworks finale lighting up the sky.

Enjoy the Chuckwagon Races at the Cowboys Rangeland Derby

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The Chuckwagon Races rev up at 7:45 p.m. every night of the Stampede, where 27 drivers, their outriders, and 162 horses compete in nine thrilling heats for prize money. 

Held at the Grandstand Infield, this prime spot gives spectators an up-close view of all the action. A beloved Stampede tradition, the Chuckwagon Races highlight the incredible skill and agility of both the drivers and their horses.

Marvel at Fireworks at the Bell Grandstand Show 

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After the chuckwagons, the Bell Grandstand Show takes center stage, featuring performances by the talented Young Canadians, alongside dancers, athletes, and musicians.

The night wraps up with a fan-favorite fireworks finale, lighting up the sky and leaving the crowd in awe. It’s a thrilling blend of talent and entertainment that captures the true spirit of the Calgary Stampede.

Join the Calgary Stampede Parade

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The Calgary Stampede Parade kicks off the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, drawing over 350,000 parade-goers to downtown, where traffic comes to a standstill in celebration.

Spanning about two hours, the parade showcases vibrant floats, majestic horses, and high-energy marching bands. Past parade marshals have included icons like Walt Disney, William Shatner, Jann Arden, and Kevin Costner.

Enjoy Pancakes at the Stampede Pancake Breakfasts 

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The Calgary Stampede is famous for its pancake breakfasts, with hundreds taking place across the city during the event. But they all share one thing in common—free pancakes, breakfast sausages, and maple syrup!

Free pancake breakfasts are everywhere. (No, really—there are so many that there’s an app to map them all!)

Apps to Download for a Trip to the Calgary Stampede

MyParking: use your phone to pay easily via the virtual pay machine at vpm.parkplus.ca or pay at one of the physical pay machines located throughout the parking lots on-site.

iOs | Android

Calgary Transit: interactive commuting over the map along with real time buses arrival schedules at any given location 

iOs | Android

Free Stampede Breakfasts: free community app to find information on local Calgary Stampede Pancake Breakfasts.

iOs | Android

Calgary Stampede: explore all the exciting new experiences using the event scheduler, and don’t forget to purchase your Rodeo and Evening Show tickets in advance.

iOs | Android

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