A first-time visitor to the Calgary Stampede arrived expecting machismo, animal welfare concerns, and public intoxication, but instead left with an inner glow, a cowboy hat, and a deep appreciation for why it is called the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.
Preconceptions Shattered
Nadine Robinson, a hosted media guest, came with cowboy boots, a notebook, and skepticism. None of her preconceived story ideas materialized. Instead, she witnessed pride, volunteerism, excitement, joy, athleticism, inclusion, celebration, and kinsmanship.
The timing of her visit coincided with the launch of WestJet's new direct service between Sault Ste. Marie and Calgary, making it easier for residents to attend. The twice-weekly flights, launched June 12, connect travellers directly to WestJet's Calgary hub.
Stampede Like Christmas
The first clue that Robinson had underestimated Stampede came before she reached the grounds. A friend told her Stampede is like Christmas, cancelling a meeting not because of illness or busyness, but because it was Stampede. Parade Day is essentially a civic holiday, with businesses hosting free pancake breakfasts and white cowboy hats appearing everywhere. Robinson estimated seeing two hats on the plane, five outside her hotel, and approximately 37 million on the grounds.
"Stampede is Christmas, in cowboy boots — only over 1.4 million people are invited to celebrate," Robinson wrote.
More Than a Rodeo
The event is far more than a rodeo, featuring bull riders, barrel racers, and cowboys and cowgirls showcasing their skills. Robinson noted that no one seems to love the animals more than the participants. Additionally, there are concerts, art exhibits, wine tastings, midway rides, markets, educational experiences, cultural performances, and numerous food vendors offering items like award-winning ginger beef perogies, traditional mini-doughnuts, and Dubai pistachio coconut ice cream.
Free Pancake Tradition
Robinson also enjoyed the tradition of free pancake breakfasts, a practice dating back more than a century. Roughly 200,000 pancakes are served during the ten-day celebration, and she managed to attend two different free breakfasts.
