Free and Affordable Events for 2024 Calgary Stampede
July 2, 2024
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As the Calgary Stampede rolls around, it can be hard not to break the bank with so many events going on, so we've rounded up some fantastic free events and some money saving tips!
Free Entry into the Stampede Grounds
Enjoy the excitement of the Calgary Stampede without spending a dime on these special free entry days:
July 5th: 11am - 1:30pm
July 7th: Until 11am
July 9th: 10am - 2pm
July 10th: Until 10am (Kids free all day)
Coke Stage
The Coke Stage is always free once you get into the grounds! Here, you can experience some incredible live music from up-and-comers to seasoned pros across all sorts of genres. To ensure everything remains $0, we'll highlight what you can experience during free Stampede grounds entry days:
Another Stampede tent with some great musicians rocking the stage! Free except for on July 7th when Shakey Graves and Dead South, are playing. But here are some free acts you can hit up:
There’s no shortage of stuff to do on the grounds. Here are some of our favs we try not to miss!
Stampede Dream Home: Walk through the Dream Home, a stunning, fully furnished home that you can actually win in the Stampede Lottery.
Canine Stars Dog Bowl: The Canine Stars Dog Bowl is an action-packed show featuring talented dogs performing incredible tricks and stunts.
Motocross Show: Get ready for adrenaline-pumping excitement at the Motocross Show. Watch as skilled riders perform gravity-defying jumps, flips, and other jaw-dropping stunts on their motocross bikes.
Western Oasis Art Show: Immerse yourself in Canadian artwork, including paintings, sculptures, quilts, photography, and more. It's a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Stampede.
Auctioneer & Rope Making Demos: Witness the fascinating skills of auctioneering and rope making in these engaging demonstrations. These demos offer a glimpse into the unique talents that support Western industries.
Agriculture Zone: A fan favourite, the Ag. Zone is where you can look at and even pet barnyard animals while learning about the vital role of agriculture in our lives.
Powwow: Experience Indigenous peoples' vibrant culture and traditions at the Powwow. This dynamic event features traditional dances, music, and regalia, providing a rich cultural experience that honours Indigenous heritage.
Blacksmiths Showcase: Watch skilled artisans demonstrate the age-old craftsmanship and techniques that have been passed down through generations. Watch as they heat, hammer, and shape metal into functional and decorative items.
Stage of Wonders: Let the circus come alive in 30-minute thrilling shows that feature breathtaking aerial acts, thrilling unicycle stunts, and delightful clowning, all guided by a charismatic ringmaster.
Mini Pony & Donkey Demos: Delight in the charm of mini ponies and donkeys at these adorable demos. Need we say more?
Free Activities Off the Stampede Grounds
Take advantage of these exciting free events happening throughout Calgary!
Glenbow at the Edison: Explore art and culture at the Glenbow satellite gallery, where you can enjoy free exhibitions showcasing diverse works from artists without spending a dime.
Stampede Parade: Kick off the Stampede with the iconic Stampede Parade! This vibrant event features elaborate floats, marching bands, riders, and dancers, bringing the streets of Calgary to life.
Acoustic Saturday Afternoons at the King Eddy: Relax and enjoy live acoustic performances every Saturday afternoon at the King Eddy. Featuring a new musician every week!
Pancake Breakfasts: Of course, our list has to include this iconic Stampede tradition! Start your day with a delicious and free pancake breakfast! Various locations around Calgary host these community events, serving up hot pancakes, sausages, and all the fixings.
Olympic Plaza Events/Fluor Rope Square: Head to Olympic Plaza for a variety of free Stampede events, including live music, mini parades, dance performances and lessons, and family-friendly activities.
Free Pinball at Pinbar: 17th Ave is a direct walk from the Stampede Grounds and a vibrant part of the city. Patio hop, shop, or enjoy free pinball games at Pinbar every Wednesday after 5 pm.
Live Music at the Blues Can: An iconic venue in Calgary for live music. Catch live blues performances at the Blues Can (many of which are free during the day).
Fireworks from Scotsman's Hill Lookout: End your day with a spectacular view of Stampede fireworks from Scotsman's Hill Lookout. You don’t need to pay for the Grandstand show to watch the skies light up!
Money-Saving Tips
Here are some more handy tips to make the most of your Stampede experience without spending too much.
Ponoka Stampede on July 1st: Consider attending the Ponoka Stampede on July 1st for a more affordable rodeo experience. Many of the same competitors from the Calgary Stampede participate here, offering top-tier rodeo action at a fraction of the cost.
Stampede Bucks at Costco: Take advantage of the Stampede Bucks deal at Costco, where you can get $50 worth of Stampede Bucks for just $40. These bucks can be used for various purchases within the Stampede grounds, including food, drinks, and merchandise, effectively saving you 20%.
Coke at Co-op: Save $10 on general admission tickets to the Stampede grounds when you spend $5 on Coke at Calgary Co-op.
SuperPass: For those planning to visit the Stampede multiple times, the SuperPass is a great deal at $49. This pass grants you unlimited entry to the Stampede grounds for all 10 days, allowing you to enjoy all the activities, concerts, and shows as many times as you want without paying for entry each time.
7-11 Cokes: 2 general admission tickets to the Stampede grounds for $32 when you buy two Cokes at 7-11.
Saddle up and enjoy the Stampede spirit without emptying your pockets! Want to find more events to enjoy? Take a look at our Interactive Stampede Map to navigate your way to fun.
