Cowboy boots are clacking against the pavement. The scent of pancakes and mini doughnuts fills the air. Everyone you meet exudes a certain “yahoo” spirit. Yes, the Calgary Stampede is back for 2026, and it’s a time to revel in all things rodeo and western. But for music fans, it’s also an opportunity to see tons of fantastic concerts across the 10-day event.
With over 100 acts across four stages, it can be hard to keep track of the comings and goings. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to the live music at the 2026 Calgary Stampede.
Living that country life
This year, the original Stampede party tent is back with bigger acts, bigger vibes and new ways to dance your boots off. Nashville North is all about spotlighting the country artists you know and love, or should get to know and love.
Award-winning singer-songwriter Ashley McBryde is slated to get the good times rolling on July 3 with her rich storytelling style. Farm-boy-turned-country-sensation Jade Eagleson is taking to the stage on July 8 and long-haul superstar Chris Young will show audiences why he’s known for legendary live shows on July 9.
And don’t worry, the country bands you have on repeat are getting some love as well. Black Jack Billy of “The Booze Cruise” fame will take the stage on July 4, Appalachian-esque Shane Smith & The Saints will headline on July 6 and hit-making powerhouse Paramalee will perform on July 12. All Nashville North shows are free with the cost of admission.
Beyond country music
The Calgary Stampede may be country at its core, but the Coca-Cola Stage is famed for lineups featuring rock, alternative, R&B and more. In fact, last year’s headliners resulted in record-breaking attendance, so make sure you arrive nice and early to secure your spot for some of the hottest artists.
This year, such artists include pop-punk legends All Time Low on July 4, recent Canada Walk of Fame inductees Our Lady Peace on July 5, and one of the world’s most respected EDM producers of modern times, Joel Zimmerman, a.k.a. deadmau5, on July 7.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a Coca-Cola Stage lineup without the return of some Stampede veterans. Alessia Cara, Jonah Kagen, Mother Mother and The Beaches are all slated to make their Coca-Cola Stage returns on July 3, 6, 9 or 12, respectively. All shows are free with admission.
Rock, country and barbecue
Country meets rock meets barbecue in true honkytonk fashion at the Big Four Roadhouse. All shows are free with admission for ages 18+ after 6 p.m., but for the first time ever, you can skip the wait and get straight to the good times with a Roadhouse Rush Pass, which includes Stampede admission and priority no-line entry to The Big Four Roadhouse on the date of purchase.
Stavley, Alberta’s own Mariya Stokes is kicking things off on July 2, dynamic duo Sons of Legion is bringing its rock ‘n’ soul to the stage on July 5, and Everlast, the ‘90s hitmaker behind songs like “Jump Around” and “What It’s Like,” performs on July 9.
Also, be sure to check out bands you might not even know you already love, like Southern-rock originators The Marshall Tucker Band on July 7 and Grammy-nominated/five-time Juno Award winners Glass Tiger on July 12.
The show you’ve all been waiting for
Every year, the Stampede Concert Series promises big names of worldwide fame. In the past, it has featured headliners such as Garth Brooks, Pitbull and Shania Twain.
This year promises two star-studded performances you won’t want to miss. Global trendsetter and chart-topping hip-hop artist A$AP Rocky is bringing his signature sound and energy to the Scotiabank Saddledome on July 4, and Canadian icon Alanis Morissette will take the stage on July 11 with her raw vocals and fearless lyrics. Both shows required pre-purchased tickets that also include entry to the Stampede.