Yeehaw! Or should we say Yahoo!

Dust of those cowboy boots and giddy up on over to The Calgary Stampede this summer, dubbed "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,". As well-seasoned Stampede aficionados we have some tips and tricks to ensure you have the most memorable Stampede to date. It's time to dust off those cowboy boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

1. Dress the Part

First things first – you need to embrace the cowboy! The Calgary Stampede is all about embracing Western culture, so dig out your best cowboy hat, cowgirl merch, denim jeans, and those trusty cowboy boots. There is no such thing as too much denim, double denim? More like quadruple denim!  Not only will you blend in with the crowd, but you'll also feel more immersed in the Stampede spirit. And don't forget a bandana – it’s both stylish and practical for keeping the dust at bay (check out our Rodeo Tote, it comes with a free bandana!).

Photo credit: Black & Liberty

2. Check out the free entry day and times.

There are often free entry slots sprinkled over the two weeks, meaning you can access the grounds without spending a cent! You can find the full list of the free admission times here.

3. Plan Your Day

With so much to see and do, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Grab a schedule and map out your must-see events and attractions. The rodeo events, chuckwagon races, and Grandstand Show are highlights you won't want to miss. Don't forget to check out the free agricultural exhibits, concerts, and Midway rides too! Check out their planning tools here.

4. Book show tickets for different days.

If you're planning to be at the Stampede for a few days and want to catch both the Rodeo and the Evening Show (highly recommended!), book these events for separate days. Your event ticket includes park entry, so by spreading them out, you save on the entry fee for an additional day instead of paying twice on the same day.

Photo credit: Calgary Stampede

5. Take advantage of the Free events. 

It’s no secret that a few days at Stampede can add up quickly, there are so many free events happening within the grounds, make sure you check these out and get your money's worth from your entry fee. From the dog show, to the agricultural building, first nations events, the coca-cola stage and so much more, you could easily fill a whole day with just free activities. 

Photo credit: Calgary Stampede


6. Stay Hydrated and Wear Sunscreen

Calgary's summer sun can be intense, and standing on your feet all day can be tiresome, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Bring a reusable water bottle to refill at the free water stations around the grounds. And don't forget to slather on the sunscreen – a cowboy tan is one thing, but sunburn is another!

7. Indulge in Stampede Food

One of the best parts of the Stampede is the midway food offerings. From deep-fried delicacies to outrageous culinary creations, there's something for every palate. Try the famous mini donuts, deep-fried Oreos, and, if you're feeling adventurous, the snow carb bao buns! Just remember to pace yourself – there's a lot to sample.

Photo credit: Calgary Stampede

8. Take in the Parade

The Calgary Stampede Parade is a spectacle you don’t want to miss. Kicking off the festivities, the parade features marching bands, floats, and hundreds of horses. Get there early to snag a good spot along the route. It’s a perfect way to start your Stampede experience with a bang, follow it to the grounds and receive free admission on day one between 11am and 1:30pm. 

9. Experience the Nightlife

When the sun goes down, the fun doesn't stop. The Stampede has a vibrant nightlife with live music, dance halls, and beer gardens. Nashville North is a popular spot for live country music and dancing. Or, make like a local and head to the Cowboys Tent for a mix of music, drinks, and dancing till the wee hours.

Photo credit: Calgary Stampede

10. Take Public Transit

Parking can be a hassle with the crowds, so consider taking public transit. Calgary's C-Train is a convenient and affordable way to get to the Stampede grounds. Plus, it saves you the trouble of finding parking and navigating traffic. If you’re planning on using a rideshare app we recommend getting dropped a few blocks away and walking the rest to avoid the hefty bill of being stuck in traffic.

11. Capture the Memories

Bring your film camera and capture the magic of the Stampede. From action-packed rodeo shots to candid moments with friends and family, there are plenty of photo opportunities. Share your snaps on social media with #CalgaryStampede to join the fun online.

12. Embrace the Spirit

Finally, the most important tip is to embrace the spirit of the Stampede, immerse yourself in the Western heritage. Whether you're line dancing, cheering at the rodeo, or enjoying a cold drink in the beer garden.

The Calgary Stampede is a celebration like no other, filled with excitement, tradition, and plenty of cowboy charm. So, saddle up, follow these tips, and get ready for a stampede of memories that will last a lifetime. Yahoo!

Yeehaw! Dive into our Stampede-inspired collection for all things cowboy chic!