Well, cowfolk, it’s nearly that time again! The Calgary Stampede officially kicks off tomorrow, July 8th and like so many of you, we’re ready to giddy it up – but not without a little prep work.

Over these next 10 days, the city will be abuzz with a TON going on day and night, no matter the weather and to some that might be a tad overwhelming, but we’ve got you.

Here’s your complete guide to the ‘2022 Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.’

PANCAKE BREAKFASTS

 

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From city’s end to city’s end, Calgary runs on maple syrup and flapjacks during the Stampede. Luckily, there will be no shortage of fluffy cakes to go around.

For a complete list of pancake breakfasts happening this week and the next hit the link above – and don’t forget to wear your stretchiest pants! 

ATTENDING THE PARADE

Set to hit the inner city streets on July 8th – the Calgary Stampede Parade is one of the biggest events of the entire year – second only to the 10-day hoedown itself. This year, however, will be the biggest in recent memory, with the legendary actor Kevin Costner leading the charge as our 2022 marshal.

From floats, dancers and musicians this parade is not one to be missed – and is the perfect way to kick off such a legendary event.

Photo via Calgary Stampede

Like parades in the past, this year’s route will begin on 3rd Street and 9th Avenue adjacent to City Hall and will end on 4th Street and 6th Avenue – we’d recommend taking the C-train as parking in the area will be scarce.

Afterward – enjoy FREE admission to the park between 11 am. – 1:30 pm.

For more information about road closures, lots, and Uber and Taxi zones – check out the City of Calgary website here. 

When: Friday, July 8th
Time: 9 am (prelude starts at 7:30 am)

WHAT TO WEAR 

From modern cuts to futuristic fabrics, the Stampede is your chance to seriously embrace fashion. While many will opt for a timeless western look, quirky trends, fabrics and vintage finds are also ‘in’ this year. To see our guide to 2022 cowtown trends hit the link above and smize, Calgary. The midway is your runway.

CONCERTS & EVENT TENTS

 

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Whether you choose to hit one of the FREE with admission events like the Coke stage, Nashville North and the Big Four Roadhouse or one of the many, MANY concerts happening at the Cowboys Music Festival, Whiskey Rose or the Badlands Music Festival – you are in for some incredible performances.

For our complete rundown of tents and concerts check out the link above, but here are just a few artists that you can catch in Calgary this year:

FIREWORKS AND SHOWS

If you know – then you know. While much of the fun is found on the midway, the coolest sights can be sought out at one of the many shows happening on the grounds and around the city. Here’s when and where you can catch some of the action in 2022.

FIREWORKS

 

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When: Friday, July 8th – 18th
Where: See link above
Time: 11 pm
Cost: FREE

GRANDSTAND

When: Friday, July 8th – 18th
Where: GMC Stadium – 3 St SE, Calgary
Time: 7:45 pm
Cost: $51+

RODEO

 

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When: Friday, July 8th – 18th
Where: GMC Stadium – 3 St SE, Calgary
Time: 1:30 pm
Cost: $140+

STAMPEDE POWWOW

When: July 12th – 14th
Where: Calgary Saddledome – 555 Saddledome Rise SE, Calgary
Time: 3pm – 6 pm
Cost: FREE with admission

PARKING

While we’d actually recommend taking the C-train to the Stampede, parking is available to those who need it.

For a spot close to the grounds, there are several on-site: the Remington lot, and lots 10 & 11. This will cost $8 per vehicle and they have a number of accessible parking stalls in lot 20, 10 and 8.

Vehicles can be left overnight but must be removed by 8 am the next day.

You’re also able to park in and around downtown – but prices and availability vary.

MIDWAY AND FOOD

FOOD

 

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From corndogs to lemonade, this year’s Stampede Midway has an insanely unique menu of deep-fried and daring foods that will both delight and concern you. Hit the link above for just some of the wacky eats you can indulge in at this year’s event.

MIDWAY

For classic games like whack-a-mole and exhilarating rides, the Midway is THE place. This year, take a spin on Canada’s Largest Ferris Wheel, put your luck to the test and work together to win prizes. You’ll probably lose – but hey, that’s half of the fun.

Here’s how much it’ll cost to climb aboard coasters and carts at the Stampede this year:

  • 22 Coupons – $20
  • 55 Coupons – $50
  • Ride All Day Wristbands – $58

CURING YOUR INEVITABLE HANGOVER

 

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We’re not going to lie, while the event itself is a grand time – the morning after can be unkind.

Our advice? While thee’s not a one size fits all approach to a wicked hangover, we’d recommend that you drink one glass of water for every beer you have at the garden, don’t take your first sip until AFTER you’ve hit the Polar Express ride, and keep your liquor to greasy food to electrolyte ratio relatively even.

If all else fails though, mobile service, Numi, offers IV Nutrient Therapy for hydration, recovery and more. Good luck!

It’s going to be a wild 10-days, friends. Please be safe, be smart and enjoy yourselves! It’s not every day that the Stampede comes around.

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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