Calgary Stampede 2018 Dates & FAQs

When is the Calgary Stampede?

  • The 2018 Calgary Stampede takes place from July 6-15. Tickets for the 2018 Rodeo and Evening Show are now on sale. We can't wait to see you!

 How much are tickets?

  • Park admission is $18 for adults and $9 for children and seniors. Advance tickets for the Stampede Rodeo and Evening Show start at $40 and include Park admission. For more details, view the full list of ticket prices and packages, and special value deals. No matter which kind of admission you choose, you'll have a great time. 

What are the Stampede Park operating hours?

  • Park hours are:
    • 5 p.m. – midnight on July 5, 2018, rides will operate until 1 a.m.
    • 11 a.m. – midnight daily July 6-15, 2018
    • On value days, Park hours vary:
      • Sunday, July 8, 2018 – Cenovus Family Day, Park hours are 8 a.m. – midnight
      • Tuesday, July 10, 2018 – McDonald’s Community Day, Park hours are 10 a.m. – midnight
      • Wednesday, July 11, 2018 – BMO Kids Day, Park hours are 7 a.m. - midnight
  • We are open rain or shine!

Are there any special deals on admission to the Calgary Stampede?

  • We offer special admission rates on designated value days as follows:
    • Friday, July 6, 2018 – Parade to Park, free admission until 1:30 p.m.
    • Sunday, July 8, 2018 – Cenovus Family Day, free admission from 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
    • Tuesday, July 10, 2018 – McDonald’s Community Day, $2 admission until 2 p.m., seniors 65 and over free all day.
    • Wednesday, July 11, 2018 – BMO Kids Day, Free admission 7 a.m. – 9 a.m., after 9 a.m. kids are $2 all day.

​​How much are ride tickets and what are the height requirements?

  • The midway and kids Great FUNtier rides use coupons that can be purchased on the park. Each ride has a different coupon value and height requirement. All specific ride details and costs can be found on the Midway page. 

Are there accommodations close to the Stampede?

  • You bet! Stampede Park is conveniently located just southeast of downtown Calgary, within walking distance from a number of hotels. The Park is accessible by Calgary’s C-train transit system, making it easy to get to hundreds of hotels, motels, even RV parks and campgrounds. Visit Tourism Calgary for information.

Can I bring my own water bottle to refill?

  • Absolutely! We have a number of water refill stations in our venues around Stampede Park. Most of these locations are within our permanent buildings such as the BMO Centre, Nutrien Western Event Centre and the Big Four building.
  • In addition, we have several mister stations around Stampede Park to cool guests down. For a map of fountain and mister station locations click here. 

 Where can I apply for a job?

  • We’re pleased to hear you want to join our team! Employment opportunities for the 2018 Stampede as well as year-round postings can be found here.

Who do I contact to become an exhibitor or entertainer?

  • You can find all vendor information, including guidebook and application forms here. If you’re in a band or entertainment act and you’d like to perform at the Stampede please send a CD or DVD to:
Free Entertainment Department
PO box 1060 Station M
Calgary, Alberta T2P 2K8

Is the Calgary Stampede Accessible?

  • The Calgary Stampede is a fully accessible event, and we are dedicated to continually improving our efforts to ensure all guests have access to all of our amenities. We welcome and encourage all feedback and suggestions from our guests.
  • For any accessibility-related questions please email us at info@calgarystampede.com. Our team will respond as quickly as possible. We will do our best to make sure your experience is exceptional.
Wheelchair accessibility: All sidewalks have been modified and are wheelchair accessible. Paved pathways and ramps assist in wheelchair access to all buildings. The Big Four building has elevator access through the main entrance, on the east side of the building, while elevator access to the Grandstand building is available at the south tower.
 
Accessible parking:  Throughout the year, we have designated accessibility parking in all parking lots. During the Calgary Stampede event in July, designated accessibility parking is available for patrons with valid permits in the following locations on a first come, first serve basis:
  • Parking Lot 8 which is accessed at 25 Avenue &  2A Street SE
  • BMO Centre Lot 10 which can be accessed at 12 Avenue & 3 Street SE
  • Parking Lot 20 which can be accessed at 12 Avenue and Olympic Way SE
Accessible viewing areas: We offer accessible viewing areas in the following venues during Stampede:
  • The Dog Bowl, located in the Stampede Corral: to access the accessible viewing area, please speak with one of our guest ambassadors in the venue. Access is available on a first come first serve basis.
  • Grandstand Rodeo and Evening Shows located in the Grandstand: you must purchase your ticket in advance through the Stampede ticket office.  Space is limited and is available for accessible person and one attendant.
  • Nutrien Western Event Centre: to access the accessible viewing area, please speak with one of our guest ambassadors in the venue. Access is available on a first come first serve basis.
  • Virgin Mobile Stampede Concert Series, located in the Scotiabank Saddledome: you must purchase your ticket in advance through Ticketmaster and indicate at the time of purchase that you require accessible seating.
  • Coca-Cola Stage: has accessible seating located directly in front of the Coca-Cola Red Lounge. It is available on a first come first serve basis.
Caregiver access: Guests with disabilities who require full-time care and could not otherwise attend the Calgary Stampede without a caregiver present will receive complimentary admission for their caregiver. The guest will pay applicable admission upon entry.
 
Service animals: Service animals with a Service Animal Identification Card are permitted on Stampede Park.
 
Service animal guidelines
  • All service animals must remain by the handler’s side at all times and must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service animal’s work or the individual’s disability prevents using these devices. In that case, the individual must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls.
  • Service animals must be house broken and handlers are responsible to clean up after their animals. 
  • Anyone bringing an animal will be responsible for and liable for any damages or injury caused by the animal.
Accessible washrooms: There are a number of accessible washrooms on Park. All of our washroom facilities have accessible stalls. Should you require an accessible washroom that accommodates all genders, they are located as follows: South Skyride Washroom, BMO Centre Medical Room, Big Four Roadhouse, Grandstand Level One South, Grandstand Infield.
 
Wheelchair check/storage: Should you wish to enjoy some of our programming without your wheelchair, we do have locations on Park identified as Stroller Parking where your wheelchair may also be parked. It is important to be aware that these areas are not necessarily manned and leaving your wheelchair is done so at your own risk.
 
Mobility assistance devices: Devices such as wheelchairs (motorized or manual), three or four wheel scooters and walkers are permitted on Park for individuals who require mobility assistance. Wheeled mobility devices with less than three wheels or devices that cannot maintain stability and balance when stopped, unpowered or unoccupied are not permitted. Devices must be manually or electrically powered and operated at a walking pace. 
 

Where are the ATMs located on Stampede Park?

  • If you need cash, several BMO ATMs are located throughout the Park during events and the 10-day Stampede. In addition, permanent BMO ATMs are located in BMO Centre, the Big Four Building, and the Grandstand.

Where can I find information about the Scotiabank Saddledome?

 Can I smoke on Stampede Park?

  • Yes and no. All food establishments and indoor facilities are smoke-free, but designated smoking areas are located throughout the Park. For everyone’s comfort, we request that if you smoke, do it in one of the outdoor designated smoking areas.

 Where is the lost and found?

  • Oh no! Let us help you get your stuff back. Stampede Park Lost and Found is located in the Security Office on the upper floor of the Big Four building on the north end. Please call (403) 261-9347 or email lostandfound@calgarystampede.com to inquire about lost items.

 Where can I get more information on Parking?

  • The Calgary Stampede operates and controls all parking facilities on site. A paid parking system is operated at the prevailing rate for all events. To find out more about parking click here.

 Transit to Stampede Park

  • Calgary’s buses and CTrains are quick and convenient ways to see the city. The CTrain is free in the downtown core and operates 24 hours during the 10 days of Stampede.  You can get to Stampede Park by catching a Red Line CTrain to either Erlton/Stampede or Victoria Park/Stampede stations. Calgary Transit is also offering discounted day passes during Stampede, which can be pre-purchased at participating vendors and purchased during Stampede at ticket vending machines. Plan your route, find schedules and maps, and much more here.

 Are first aid services available?

  • Aaron Paramedical Services provides EMT and Paramedics for emergency medical and illness response available at various medical rooms throughout Stampede Park during normal operating hours. Please see park map for locations.

 Are there police officers on Stampede Park during the Calgary Stampede?

  • The Calgary Police office is located on the upper level of the Big Four Building. Access is via the main lobby of the Big Four, east side of the building. Calgary Police Service and Stampede Security personnel are available 24 hours a day, if you require emergency assistance please call 911 or 403.261.0595

 What is the ATCO Gas Lost Kids program?

  • Kids on Stampede Park are kept safe by being tagged by the Lost Kids Patrol as soon as they arrive through any entrance. Should a child become separated from a parent, the Lost Kids Patrol will take them to the ATCO Gas Lost Kids Centre at the south end of the Big Four Building. The Lost Kids program operates daily during the Calgary Stampede and is a complimentary program.

Are pets allowed on Stampede Park?

  • Unfortunately, Stampede Park cannot accommodate guests' pets. Do not leave your pets unattended in your vehicle. Kindly leave them at home or make arrangements to house them at a kennel. Service animals with Service Animal Identification Cards are permitted.

 Can I ride a bike to Stampede Park?

  • Yes you can! Bike racks are provided at the Park entrances. Bicycles, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, heelys, and segways are not permitted on Stampede Park. Any other wheeled device deemed unsafe by our staff may be denied entry to the Park at Stampede’s discretion. No storage lockers are available at Park entrances.

 Where are baby change stations and mothers' rooms located?

  • For the convenience of buckaroos and their mothers alike, diaper change stations are located in all public restrooms. Areas for breastfeeding mothers are also available in the South WestJet Skyride washroom and the Lost Kids Centre.

 Where can I rent wheelchairs, strollers and/or storage locations?

  • Inside Olympic Entry
  • Inside Erlton Entry; adjacent to Community Park South.
  • South of Weadickville, at the northeast corner of the Big Four Building at street level

What are you doing to ensure my safety at the Calgary Stampede?

  • Please note that we do not broadly discuss the specifics of our security procedures to avoid compromising their effectiveness. However, be aware that:
    • Safety is our top priority. We work closely with relevant law enforcement and public protection agencies to help ensure the safety of our event.
    • Calgary Stampede performs security screening upon entry. We do not permit any items such as weapons, alcohol or drugs. You can see the full list of prohibited items here.
    • The Calgary Stampede has a medical services team with several locations across Stampede Park. Those locations can be found here.
    • The Calgary Stampede has a significant Calgary Police Service presence on Stampede Park for the duration of our event.
    • We monitor severe weather within a 50 km radius of the Park.
    • Ride safety: Our partner, North American Midway Entertainment provides on-site Safety Coordinators who work closely with state provincial and local authorities to ensure all rides pass and exceed inspections and examinations.
    • We work with our partners at the Calgary Fire Department and Alberta Health Services to ensure all of our facilities and exhibits meet their standards.
    • The Calgary Stampede conducts daily pre-opening inspections throughout the park to create a safe environment for our guests

 Can I be searched before coming into Stampede Park?

  • As guests arrive at the Calgary Stampede, they will be guided through a security screening area and many will be selected for search. Visitors who decline to be searched will not be permitted to enter Stampede Park. All visitors should arrive with the expectation of being searched and avoid bringing items that are not permitted. You can find our list of prohibited items in our terms of entry which you can find here.

What am I allowed to bring onto Stampede Park with me?

The following items are permitted:

  • Strollers, Wagons, Wheelchairs, Motorized Scooters for mobility assistance
  • Service animals with a Service Animal Identification Card
  • Backpacks, Blankets, Picnic or lunch, Non-alcoholic beverages, snacks and food
  • Refillable water bottles (water stations are available in our venues)
  • Binoculars, Cameras
  • Chapstick, lip balm and sunscreen
  • E-Cigs, Vape Pens, Cigarettes (for use in designated smoking areas only)
  • Hats, especially cowboy hats!
  • Mobile phones & chargers
  • Sunglasses, Rain gear, Umbrellas and Parasols
  • Western wear and cowboy boots
  • Smiles!

    We encourage you to pack light to reduce delays at security checkpoints.

What if I accidentally bring an item that is prohibited? Is there a place I can store it until later?

  • Unfortunately, we cannot store items at the entrance that are prohibited on Stampede Park. You will either need to store it in your vehicle, or it can be voluntarily surrendered and will not be returned.

What is the best time to arrive?

  • Our standard Park hours during the Calgary Stampede are 11 a.m. – midnight,  you are welcome to arrive anytime in between! Please note that opening time may vary on designated value days which you can find here.
  • If you are attending the Calgary Stampede rodeo, evening show, or are coming to see a specific artist on one of our music stages or concert venues, we recommend arriving at least one hour before the scheduled start time to ensure you have time to proceed through mandatory security screening and find your way to your destination.

What is Calgary weather like?

  • July weather in Calgary is generally pleasant. Average daily highs hover around 23C (76F) during the day. Weather can be quite unpredictable, however, and it’s not uncommon for afternoon storms, showers, even hail (yes hail!) to occur. We recommend you bring sunscreen, a hat and light jacket for the unexpected. You can find the Calgary weather forecast here.

 Can I pick up my Rodeo/Evening Show/concert tickets when I arrive at Stampede Park?

  • During the Calgary Stampede, Will Call is available at our primary entries including Erlton Entry, Olympic Entry and Main Entry. Please see the admission services booth located at the entry at which you arrive for assistance. The admission services booth is located before the security screening area.

Can I bring my medical prescription? (i.e. insulin)

  • Oral and injectable prescription medications should be in their original containers. Please only bring what you will require for a 24 hour period.
  • Naloxone kits will be permitted to be carried as long as they are in their original packaging.

Can I bring in medical marijuana and where can I consume?

  • Medical marijuana with proper documentation and within the legal limits may be possessed but not consumed on Stampede Park. Please ask any of our guest ambassadors for directions to the nearest public space where consumption is permitted.

Can I bring a sign, banner or totem?

  • No signs, banners or totems are allowed. This includes all handheld signs or signs and items attached to poles or pool noodles or apparatuses used to display anything above the head. All instances of the above will be subject to surrender and not returned.

Can I park my RV or trailer at Stampede?

  • There is no public parking for RV’s or trailers on Stampede Park property. The nearest parking available is the Walmart parking lot located at 1100-3800 Memorial Drive NE.

Can Taxi’s and Uber’s drop off or pick up at Stampede Park? Taxi: there are three designated locations on Stampede Park where Taxi’s queue or pick up.

  • Erlton Entry located at the south end of Stampede Park
  • 14th Avenue & Olympic Way SE at the north end of Stampede Park
  • BMO Centre/Cowboys Casino at the north end of Stampede Park are permitted to pick up and drop off at Stampede Park, however, they do not have a designated area.

Is there Car to Go parking available at Stampede Park?

  • We offer some designated parking for Car2go users. This parking is located on the north end of Stampede Park outside of Olympic Entry on 13th Avenue at 5th Street SE.

Can I walk to Stampede Park?

  • Calgary is a very walkable city and depending on where you are coming from, walking is a great option to visit Stampede Park. The City of Calgary has some detailed information on pathways and trails which can be found here.

Is there motorcycle parking available at Stampede Park?

  •  Yes, we have assigned motorcycle parking in all of our parking lots.

I am getting dropped off at Stampede, where is the best place to be dropped off?

  • For guests who are being dropped off or picked up, there is a cell phone pickup waiting area north of Stampede Park, outside of Olympic Entry near 14 Avenue and 5 Street SE. At the south end of Stampede Park, the pickup area is located at 25 Avenue and Stampede Trail SE.

I am arriving by limo, town car, etc. Where can I get dropped off?

  • Please instruct your driver to drop you off at the south end of Stampede Park which is accessed off of 25th Avenue SE.

Where is the nearest drug store?

  • Depending on what you are looking for, you may be able to find it here on Stampede Park. For example, bandages, allergy and pain medication are sold in Weadickville at 7-11. Alternatively, the nearest drug store to Stampede Park is:
  • Remember, if you are in need of medical assistance, we have medical locations on Stampede Park. You can find them on our Park map located here.

Where is the nearest gas station?

Can we pack our own picnic?

  • We welcome our guests to pack their own non-alcoholic beverages and picnic items. We have a number of amazing green spaces around the Park for you to enjoy. We ask our guests to help us keep the Park clean by using one of the composting, garbage and recycling stations that are located around the Park.

Can we bring our own alcohol?

  • No, outside alcohol is not permitted.

Do you sell craft beer?

  • For 2018, 32 Alberta small brewers will be featured at The Big Four Roadhouse. Sixteen brewers will be featured from July 5 to 10, and July 11 to 15 will feature 16 different local brewers.
  • As a continued key partner, Labatt will also feature craft beer including Mill Street Saddle Up Session Ale, a specialty beer brewed exclusively for The Big Four Roadhouse.

Can I walk around the entire Park with my alcoholic beverage?

  • Alcohol is permitted in licensed areas only. If you are leaving a licensed area (such as the Grandstand, Big Four Roadhouse, Nashville North or other) you will be asked to consume your beverage before leaving the venue.

 

I bought Costco Stampede Bucks, where are these redeemable?

  • Costco Stampede Bucks are redeemable at all locations on Stampede Park with the exception of our lotteries, corporate hosting and premium venue areas.

Map

  • 1410 Olympic Way SE,
  • Calgary, AB | T2G 2W1
  • (403) 261-0101
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