From July 7 to 16, 2023, the Calgary Stampede grounds will be a prime destination for rodeo events, festival eats, live music and rides. But there’s also plenty of Stampede-related fun to be had at events around the city. Here’s a look at some of the ways you can get in the Stampede spirit around Calgary this month.
The Art & Story of Stampede Saddles
When: July 6 to 30
Contemporary Calgary is hosting a special exhibition dedicated to saddles throughout the month of July. The Art & Story of Stampede Saddles features eight saddles, dating from 1912 to modern day, from the Calgary Stampede Collection & Archives.
Contemporary Calgary, 701 11 St. S.W., 403-770-1350, contemporarycalgary.com
Moët & Chandon x FinePrint Stampede Champagne Parlour
When: July 7 and 8
Did you know that FinePrint, which opened on Stephen Avenue last year, has a Champagne vending machine? Take your Stampede experience to the next level with that and more at the restaurant’s first Stampede Champagne Parlour Party. On July 7 and 8 from 2 to 7 p.m., FinePrint’s patio will be a prime destination for oysters, Champagne and more. And of course, you can pop in to try a 200mL bottle of Moët & Chandon’s Imperial Rosé or Brut from the Champagne vending machine with a $25 gold coin from the restaurant bar. The restaurant is only a 30-minute walk from the Stampede grounds, making it a great stop on the way to or from the festivities there.
113 8 Ave. S.W., 403-475-5655, fineprintyyc.com
The District at Beltline Stampede Showdown
When: July 10
Put on your stretchy denim and head to The District at Beltline for the first annual Stampede Chef’s Showdown. Held in the outdoor courtyard, the event highlights signature Stampede dishes from five notable chefs: Duncan Ly from Bar Chouette, Roy Oh from Roy’s Kitchen, Mikko Tamarra from Fortunas Row, Mike Pigot from Pat & Betty’s and Jinhee Lee from Jin Bar. Ticketholders will enjoy live entertainment, tasty eats from all five chefs and an afterparty.
227 11 Ave. S.W., eventbrite.com
Buckaroos
When: July 7 to 16
Don your best western wear and head to Buckaroos, a new western pop-up at The Pioneer on Stephen Avenue. Running throughout Stampede starting at 11 a.m. each day, Buckaroos promises plenty of live music and DJs, with performances by artists like JJ Shiplett, Coyote Kickback, Shaela Miller, Altameda and more. Make sure you arrive hungry so you have room to try the in-house food and drink options like the next-level mini doughnut experience by Rodeo’s Mini Donuts.
117 8 Ave. S.W., 403-888-5942, thepioneeron8th.com
Flapjack 15
When: July 7 to 16
This month, Run Calgary is hosting the Flapjack 15, a virtual, western-themed run/walk that takes place over the 10 days of Stampede. Supporting Youth Centres of Calgary, the race can be run whenever you want during those dates and participants will get cool swag like western-themed race bibs and technical shirts.
Stampede Pancake Breakfasts
When: Throughout Stampede
This year marks the 100th anniversary of Stampede pancake breakfasts, and whether it’s your first one ever or your 50th, they truly are something you should try to experience at least once each Stampede. There are dozens of pancake breakfasts taking place around the city throughout Stampede, with many of them featuring music, children’s activities and more along with the tasty eats. Find one close to you and check it out over the 10 days of Stampede.
Multiple locations, stampedebreakfast.ca
