Stampede off-grounds events kick off July 2, from bowl to art
Stampeders face Argonauts in Stampede Bowl halftime show; contemporary art, breakfasts, road race and music throughout July.
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While the main Stampede grounds fill with rodeo stunts and live music from July 2 to 12, several off-grounds events are worth marking on your calendar.
The Stampede Bowl on July 2 at McMahon Stadium (1817 Crowchild Trail N.W.) kicks off the season. The Calgary Stampeders face the Toronto Argonauts for the Stampede Bowl trophy, with a halftime performance from American country and pop singer-songwriter Dasha.
G'ddy Up! runs July 2 to 18 at Newzones (730 11 Ave. S.W.). This annual group contemporary art exhibition celebrates the imagery, traditions and landscapes of the West, with painting, sculpture, photography and multimedia exploring fresh ideas about Western culture and rodeo heritage.
Stampede Bash on July 4 takes over The Legion (116 7 Ave. S.E.) for one night. Dance to live music from local country artists Sterling Drake, Amy Nelson and Boots Graham, and shop from Honky Tonk Market vendors selling westernwear.
Stampede breakfasts crop up across the city offering free pancakes and sausages, live entertainment, raffles and family activities. Check stampedebreakfast.ca for locations.
The Stampede Road Race on July 5 at Glenmore Athletic Park (5300 19 St. S.W.) offers 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances plus kids' races from 100m to 1200m.
Songs in the Saddle on July 7 at The Grand (608 1 St. S.W.) brings musical artists from across Canada to celebrate country, folk and Americana music. Vancouver-based singer Elliot C. Way and Calgary singer Carter Felker headline the night.