The History of the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is an annual wild west gathering that is about 86 years old in 2009. It brings over one million rodeo fans to Canada each year. The rodeo competitions are known and recognized around the world. Total prize money for various Stampede rodeo events is over one million dollars.

  1. When is the Calgary Stampede?

    • The Calgary Stampede takes place in Calgary, Alberta every summer in July.

    Who Started the Stampede

    • A cowboy named Guy Weadick began the stampede in 1912 by raising $100,000 from investors. He wanted to have a western show for Canada that resembled those he had seen in the United States.

    First Chuckwagon Races

    • In 1923, the Calgary Stampede had the first competitive chuckwagon races. The prize money for the event was $275.

    The Stampede Gets Stretched

    • In 1967 the Calgary Stampede, which was originally a six day event, changed to a nine day event. In 1968, it was lengthened even further to 10 days following changes to the "Lord's Day Act."

    Stampede Covers More Ground

    • In 1968, more land was bought in order to allow the Calgary Stampede to expand.

    Today

    • The Calgary Stampede is one of the biggest tourist draws for the country.