The Stampede

We took the Calgary Transit Train to the Stampede…the rail system was really something…the train platforms and trains themselves were well lit and clean…plus the rails ran through the city streets which made everything so accessible.

Lee had gotten us tickets for the final chuckwagon race and big closing show celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Stampede and the formation of the entertainment group called The Young Canadians. The atmosphere of the Stampede is all western with most people decked out in their cowboy boots, hats, and big belt buckles…it is also one of the biggest amusement parks I have seen with rides, food concessions, games, etc….it even boasted of tram rides and zip lines.

We decided to have dinner at a BBQ restaurant called The Roadside where we enjoyed pulled pork and brisket sandwiches along with some tasty beer. Inside the Roadside they had live entertainment, games, and walk up food and beverage service….we were lucky to have found a table with full service so we could sit and take in the atmosphere. After filling our bellies, we headed to the stadium and found that we had gotten some pretty good seats considering the last minute purchase.

The first part of the evening was the GMAC Rangeland Derby which was the final chuckwagon race. There were 8 races that led up to the final one which was won by Kurt Bensmiller.

The second part of the evening was the entertainment portion which was so amazing…..first of all, we watched them set up the stage….it was fascinating to watch their platform open and raise up bringing setups, props, lighting panels..some of the staging was even brought in by aerial wires. The main stage was hauled in by a big tractor……can you say WOW!

The entertainment was incredible with performances by The Young Canadian which included drummers entering the stadium on aerial wires, Andy Kim ( do you remember the songs “Sugar, Sugar” and “Rock me Gentle, Rock me Slowly”?), Drew Lynch (a comedian who has a stutter and he was soooo funny), an illusionist, and ice skaters. To top it off, Eddie the Eagle (the Olympic downhill skier) entered the stadium fully attired with his skis on aerial wires sailing through the air. And just when you thought you had seen it all, there was a fabulous fireworks display. I did try to take as many pictures of this show but the strobe lights, etc made it extremely difficult!

We walked out of the stadium in awe of what we just experienced and it was an experience for sure. We might have missed the beginning of the Stampede but this night made up for it completely. Thanks to everyone who helped us get here! 😘