The Calgary Stampede: Celebrating The True Spirit Of The Wild West

By Author: Bonny Kominek
Total Articles: 96
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History

The Calgary Stampede grew out of the vision of Guy Weadick, a famous working cowboy and vaudeville entertainer, who traveled in the wild-west shows that were popular in the early 1900s. In 1912, Weadick produced the first ?Frontier Days and Cowboy Championship Contest,? which later became the Calgary Stampede. Today it''s a vibrant combination of festival, exhibition, and rodeo, billed at the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and attracting 1.2 million visitors.

The Stampede is held at the Stampede Park, located southeast of downtown Calgary. Some events are held in the Pengrowth Saddledome, an impressive looking arena built in the shape of a saddle.

Highlights of the Calgary Stampede include the following:

Stampede Rodeo

Events at the Stampede Rodeo such as Bareback, Bull Riding, and Steer Wrestling are the backbone of the Stampede Rodeo. And for the youngsters there''s Novice Bareback, and Novice Bronc.

Chuckwagon Races

The Chuckwagon Races include the world''s premier chuckwagon event, the GMC Rangeland Derby, which is held over nine nightly heats and has contestants battling ...
... it out for over $1m in prize money.

The Grandstand Show

This show features entertainment to suit all tastes from contemporary music and dance artists to magicians and acrobats.

Animals and Agriculture

Agriculture events and programs are held year-round in Calgary, and this agriculture showcase at the Stampede helps to connect rural and urban communities.

Around Town

The Stampede kicks off with Parade Day with entertainment including celebrity appearances, marching bands, and colorful floats.

And if you arrive at Calgary Airport during the Stampede then you''re in for a real treat! Stampede committee volunteers welcome visitors to Calgary with a true Stampede greeting including an invitation to visit the Stampede and information about the event ? complete with lots of country music!

Harry the Horse is the official mascot of the Calgary Stampede and is a common sight around the city throughout the 10 days of the Stampede.

Stampede Caravan Breakfasts serve up authentic cowboy breakfasts. Grab a free pancake breakfast at numerous locations in the city.

So if you''re near Calgary during the Stampede, why not let the Rockies wait a while and grab yourself a pair of cowboy boots and a hat and start practicing your yahoos! Bonny Kominek wrote this article while on a holiday booked with Dialaflight who provide flight to Canada and other desinations.