The Calgary Stampede's economic impact extends far beyond the rodeo and midway, generating $389 million in economic activity across Alberta, with about 90 per cent concentrated in Calgary, according to a 2025 MNP economic impact study.
Stampede CEO Joel Cowley said MasterCard data from 2025 revealed local businesses experienced an 18 per cent increase in economic activity during the 10-day event compared with the summer baseline, while restaurants saw a 29 per cent increase.
Boost for Local Businesses
The economic ripple begins even before the festival kicks off, as Calgarians prepare by purchasing new hats, boots and jeans from local retailers like Lammle's and Smithbilt Hats. Cowley noted the MasterCard data showed a significant uptick in spending ahead of the event.
“Obviously, buying their new hats and boots and jeans and going to Lammle’s and Smithbilt hats. So there’s a benefit there as well,” Cowley said.
Ruhee Ismail Teja, vice-president of policy and external affairs for the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the timing of the boost: “That impact is especially meaningful this year, with businesses navigating an increasingly challenging environment, from rising operating costs and disruptions, to long-standing trading relationships, to geopolitical uncertainty and ongoing questions about Alberta’s future within Canada.”
Tourism and Long-Term Growth
Tourism Calgary president and CEO Alisha Reynolds said visitor spending was up seven per cent over the first quarter of 2025, with strong momentum expected to continue. She highlighted that the Stampede's impact extends beyond the grounds, with venues throughout the city activating every quadrant.
“Calgary has one opportunity to make a great first impression, and we do that through our visitor economy. Tourism offers that chance to give people a warm introduction to a city that will have meaning for them, and that they will remember,” Reynolds said. “When people experience Calgary’s vibrancy and welcoming nature, they want to come back.”
Many visitors return to invest, launch businesses or move to Calgary, fueling long-term economic growth, she added.
Lifeline for Local Workers
Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas said the Stampede can be a lifeline for a wide range of local businesses and workers, sustaining them for the rest of the year. Civic partners from the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, Calgary Economic Development and Tourism Calgary, alongside Farkas, noted the event provides a critical boost amid economic uncertainty.
