Calgary Stampede Rodeo

Watch as competitors from around the world compete to win the richest prize in rodeo.

For ten days in early July, visitors flock to Calgary for the annual stampede. Spend the afternoon watching the world's best rodeo athletes as they compete head-to-head in six major events for a possible two million dollar prize – the richest prize in rodeo. The atmosphere at the rodeo is electric as you watch the toughest champions and livestock as they participate in bareback riding, bull riding, barrel racing, saddle bronc, steer wrestling and tie-down roping.

Along with admission to the afternoon show, you’ll also have access to Stampede Park which has a whole host of other attractions. You can visit the fairground for a ride above the crowd on WestJet’s chairlift, learn more about First Nations culture and their involvement at the Stampede at Elbow River Camp, indulge in fresh food and drink, and go shopping at the market.

There’s also the Sam Centre, a 90 minute immersive experience that tells the story of the Stampede. There’s learning spaces, storytelling, and captivating showcases, along with a couple of galleries. The centre is open year-round.

Throughout the ten day event, there are plenty of other activities happening throughout the city, including a parade, agricultural competition, free pancake breakfasts, and live music shows. Admission to the afternoon show is for the classic rodeo, and for the evening is the chuckwagon races and a grandstand show featuring music, dance, acrobatics, and concluding with fireworks.

In recent years, there have been increasing questions raised around the nature of some of the events at the Calgary Stampede, in particular some of the rodeo events. Audley Travel has an animal welfare policy and is in regular conversation with the organisers on animal welfare and safety. The event has a commitment to animal care in place, which is said to comply with Alberta’s Animal Protection Act. We recommend to review Calgary Stampede's Animal Care page before deciding to include this in your itinerary. You can learn more here: https://corporate.calgarystampede.com/about-us/animal-care.