The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth - Calgary Stampede

Don your denim, grab your Stetson and saddle up for the Calgary Stampede, “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”. It’s 10 days of western fun. Every year one million visitors take it in. This happening hoedown officially kicks off with the Calgary Stampede Parade. Be sure and stake your curb-side claim early as the downtown walkways fill up fast with folks eager to see the many marching bands, over 150 floats and hundreds of horses glide past. Next, take in the thrills and spills of the Calgary Stampede Rodeo. . Watch the world’s best rodeo athletes go head-to-head riding wild horses and bulls, roping cattle and more. The excitement of the rodeo is only outdone by the heart-pounding rush of the chuckwagon races. Hold on to your hats as you’re in for a wild ride. At the sound of the claxon, outriders hurl cooking implements into the back of the wagons. Then the teams of four horses pull their chuckwagons through a figure eight and charge onto the track. You can’t help but start hootin’ and hollerin’ when they head down the stretch for the finish. Want to see animals up close? Venture to the Stampede agricultural showcase for a closer look at cattle, horses, sheep, miniature horses, donkeys and more. Ready to wind down? Make your way to the Grandstand Show--a staged spectacle featuring horses, singers, dancers and inspiring music. Before you head back to the ranch, pick up a deal from one of the 180 vendors at the Stampede Market. Looking for an authentic cowboy keepsake? Sidle over to the Western Oasis, where you’ll find western-themed artwork, bronze statues and craftwork.