Living

Calgary Stampede Has Officially Kicked Off- Here’s What To Know

 

calgary-stampede-100

Photo: calgarystampede on Instagram

For proud Canucks who can’t wait to sample the latest steaks and quirky delicacies, the Calgary Stampede has officially returned for another year. The annual 10 day Calgary Stampede event has kicked off today until July 17th, with all new food, music, shows and western hospitality. The Stampede is jam packed with various shows, food markets, and athletic activities. Here are some of the must see activities for the Stampede goers this year:

Watch the Stampede Parade: The parade kicks of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth: the Calgary Stampede Parade on Friday at 7:30 a.m. with more than 150 participants, including 30 marching bands, 40 floats, 750 horses, and 4,000 people. Musicians Jann Arden and Paul Brandt will be leading the parade, which will also be paying a tribute to the firefighters of Fort McMurray and Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo wildfire response.

Sample all of the featured food: With over 30 new intriguing treats, there is something for every taste bud at the Stampede this year. From teriyaki chicken perogies, to fruit infused grilled cheese, to deep fried butter tarts, this year has some crazy exciting choices to snack on. Some other notable foods include mac and cheese stuffed burgers, pink strawberry candy apples, pretzel dogs and poutine corn dogs.

calgary-stampede-222

Photo: calgarystampede on Instagram

Check out the dog bowl: This new dog show features The Canine Stars, which is a group of rescue dogs from shelters who will wow the audience by performing stunts and tricks such as high jumps and dock diving.

Have a bannock picnic: Visit the Stampede’s Indian Village and partake in a bannock picnic. The picnic pack includes a picnic blanket, two drinks, two menu items and a tote bag. Enjoy the green space along the Elbow River.

calgary stampede 1

Photo: calgarystampede on Instagram 

Play at the midway: There is plenty of fun at the stampede midway with various rides and games such as the wave swinger and the giant Ferris wheel. Race up the climbing wall, or have an axe-throwing competition or take an aim at the paintball arena. There is an activity for everyone to take part in.