Calgary Stampede draws crowds as parade kicks off 10 days of festivities downtown

The Calgary Stampede officially launched Friday with its annual parade down 9th Avenue, drawing spectators from around the globe who staked spots as early as midnight Thursday.

Two-time Winter Olympic medallists led the procession. Courtney Sarault, the first Canadian short-track speed skater to win four medals at a single Olympics, and Mikaël Kingsbury, the most decorated male freestyle skier in Olympic history, served as parade marshals. Both competed at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games in February.

While initially nervous about riding horses — a new experience for athletes accustomed to controlling their own bodies — both expressed excitement about experiencing their first Stampede through marshal roles. "There's less pressure obviously here and we're just gonna enjoy," Kingsbury said.

Belgian tourist Christophe Colonval and his wife Jane, two months into a cross-country exploration of Canada, timed their trip to coincide with the Stampede. "We heard about it for years, and I said once I've got the opportunity to be here, we'll be here," Colonval said. The couple plans to spend the full 10 days experiencing the rodeo, concerts, pancake breakfasts, and other attractions.

Among other notable figures, comedian Andrew Phung, best known for his role in Kim's Convenience (which won him five consecutive Canadian Screen Awards), serves as a celebrity guest judge. Phung grew up in northeast Calgary and fondly remembers Stampede as a teenager — a chance to experience freedom during the summer.

The 10-day event runs through July 12, featuring midway games and food, afternoon rodeos, evening chuckwagon races, and concerts across multiple stages.