The wait is over, Calgary! Western Canada’s Largest convention centre is now open

After much anticipation, construction and chatter, Calgary can officially say that it’s the home of Western Canada’s largest convention centre.

This Wednesday, the BMO Centre Expansion opened its doors to the public and it’s truly a sight to behold.

A massive project that cost a whopping $500 million, the BMO will host many special events, trade and consumer shows in the near future with plenty of space to do so!

With three ballrooms, including the largest in the city at 50,000 square feet, 350,000 square feet of exhibit space, and 150,000 square feet of meeting space, the possibilities are endless

According to their website, however, these rooms will be ideal for exhibits, meetings, and galas.

“For four years, we have been promising that the expanded BMO Centre will offer Calgarians, southern Albertans and visitors to our city a greater way to gather. Today, it is with immeasurable pride that we open the doors to the BMO Centre at Stampede Park,” said Joel Cowley, CEO of the Calgary Stampede.

“The BMO Centre expansion was built for Calgary and southern Alberta, with the vision of creating a world-class facility both in terms of design and the ability to provide exceptional guest experiences through our signature western hospitality.”

In addition, the expansion will also feature Canada’s largest indoor fireplace and 85 pieces of art including the ‘Spirit of Water,‘ which is 70 feet tall and “embodies the power and vitality of water.”

Want to check it out?

If you want a guided tour, the Calgary Stampede will be hosting a FREE pancake breakfast to celebrate the biggest event of the season and the grand opening of the BMO Centre Expansion.

It all goes down at Stampede Park on Saturday, June 8th, 2024 between 9 am and 1 pm, so don’t miss it!

These are exciting times.

Happy exploring!