Calgary Stampede 2025: A Celebration of Tradition and Economic Impact

The Calgary Stampede, an annual festival held every July in Calgary, Alberta, has been a cornerstone of Western Canadian culture since its inception in 1912.

Founded by Guy Weadick, a former Wyoming cowboy, the event has grown into a ten-day extravaganza that attracts visitors from around the globe.

In 2025, the Stampede welcomed 1,470,288 attendees, narrowly missing the previous year's record of 1,477,953.

Despite this, the event's impact on the local economy remained substantial, generating approximately $282 million for Alberta and $227 million for Calgary.

The festival's success can be attributed to its diverse offerings, including rodeo competitions, musical performances, parades, and cultural exhibitions.

Notably, the expanded Indigenous Village attracted over 300,000 visitors, providing immersive experiences such as traditional dance performances and storytelling sessions.

These initiatives fostered meaningful cultural exchanges and highlighted the rich heritage of the Treaty 7 First Nations.

The rodeo events reached new heights with a record-breaking prize purse of $3.5 million.

Brazilian bull rider Paulo Ferreira made history by becoming the first South American competitor to claim the prestigious title, earning the $200,000 grand prize.

Weather conditions during the 2025 Stampede were favorable, with only one afternoon of light rain, contributing to consistently robust daily attendance.

The event's commitment to sustainability was evident through comprehensive waste reduction initiatives, diverting an estimated 85% of festival waste from landfills—a new benchmark for large-scale Canadian events.

However, the Stampede was not without controversy.

Animal welfare advocates maintained their annual presence outside the grounds, protesting rodeo events they consider inhumane.

In response, Stampede officials highlighted enhanced veterinary oversight and modified competition rules designed to prioritize animal safety.

As the 2025 Calgary Stampede concluded, planning was already underway for the following year.

Organizers hinted at expanded international programming and further technological enhancements to improve visitor experiences.

The Stampede's enduring appeal lies in its ability to honor tradition while embracing innovation, ensuring its place as a beloved event for years to come.