The 114th edition of the Calgary Stampede concluded on Sunday, with organizers reporting an attendance of over 1.4 million guests during the 10-day event. Although this year’s turnout did not break records like the 2024 and 2025 Stampedes, CEO Joel Cowley expressed satisfaction, suggesting it could potentially rank as the third most-attended in history.
Cowley highlighted the significance of surpassing the 1.4 million guest mark in 2026, considering economic uncertainties and persistent affordability concerns among Canadians. To address these concerns, the Stampede introduced four free-admission days and various community activities outside the park, such as pancake breakfasts and downtown events.
Approximately 70% of attendees were from Calgary and nearby areas, with 11% from other parts of Alberta, 12% from different regions in Canada, and 7% international visitors. Cowley emphasized the economic impact generated by outside visitors, citing last year’s Stampede contributing $389 million to Alberta’s economy.
Stampede president Stuart O’Connor praised this year as exceptionally successful, noting the record-breaking Stampede parade with 125 entries and the diverse lineup of over 100 artists at the concert series. The Rangeland Derby chuckwagon races and rodeo competitions remained popular attractions, drawing enthusiastic crowds to GMC Stadium.
Despite the festivities, an incident involving a horse injury during a chuckwagon race sparked renewed discussions on animal welfare at the event. Cowley assured that the injured horse was receiving care at a top veterinary clinic, with hopes for a full recovery.
The Vancouver Humane Society, a vocal critic of rodeo events at the Stampede, raised concerns over the incident, citing it as part of a recurring pattern of animal incidents and deaths. The ongoing debate on animal safety at the Stampede continues to attract attention and calls for reform.
Looking ahead, Cowley expressed optimism for the Stampede’s future, pointing to the recently unveiled 20-year master plan for Stampede Park. With positive feedback from guests, enhanced security measures, and upcoming expansions on the grounds post-Saddledome demolition, the Calgary Stampede aims to improve visitor experiences and accommodate larger crowds efficiently.