Calgary Stampede

Calgary Stampede, community organization and fairground in Calgary

Calgary Stampede is a not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates western heritage, cultures and community spirit. Its work is supported by more than 2,500 volunteers and is delivered through events, programs and initiatives that take place throughout the year, with investment in youth, support for agricultural programs, celebration of western culture and economic impact in the city.

The organization traces its origins to 1886, when Stampede Park began operating as a gathering place for organizations, the community and visitors from around the world. According to its own presentation, the organization contributes more than $721 million in annual economic impact to Alberta's economy.

Structure and governance

The Calgary Stampede is governed by a volunteer board of directors made up of 20 directors elected by shareholders, nine appointed directors and the immediate past president. Day-to-day operations are carried out by more than 1,200 year-round employees, overseen by an executive management team. Stampede shareholders are also volunteers: their shares do not grant dividends or appreciate, and cannot be sold. Every March, shareholders elect the board of directors at the annual general meeting.

Volunteering and committees

The organization presents itself as one of the most respected volunteer organizations in the world. More than 2,500 community volunteers contribute leadership, time and energy to organizing events and activities through volunteer committees.

Programs and initiatives

The record details a broad set of programs and areas of activity:

• Youth initiatives and community programs, along with Stampede School, Stampede Summer Camp and scholarships.
• Stampede Showband, Stampede Showriders, Band of Outriders and Young Canadians School of Performing Arts.
• OH Ranch Education Program and Journey 2050.
• Poster Competition.
• Stampede Royalty.
• Community Donation Program and Community Booking Form.
• Support for Lasting Legends, The 1912 Society and Donor Wall.
• Divot Classic.

Venues and development in Stampede Park

The organization manages and develops various spaces within Stampede Park, including BMO Centre, Sam Centre, Autograph Collection Hotel on Stampede Park and Corona Skydeck. The record also mentions a 20-year Master Plan for the park, as well as Cowboys Casino and SAM Centre.

Agriculture, livestock and animal care

Agricultural and western activity is central to the organization, which has an agriculture strategy for 2026-2029 and its own ranches: Stampede Ranch and OH Ranch. Animal care is addressed through a stated commitment and a frequently asked questions section.

Strategic planning and transparency

The organization has published a 2025-2029 strategic plan, which follows the 2020-2025 plan, and frames its evolution within the development of the 20-year Master Plan. It also publishes annual reports to the community from 2011 to 2024, as well as financial statements, an accreditation report and a belonging statement. The Calgary Stampede acknowledges the support of community and public partners, including The City of Calgary and the Government of Alberta.

The organization acknowledges that it is situated on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani, Kainai), Tsuut'ina and Îyâxe Nakoda (Bearspaw, Chiniki, Goodstoney) First Nations, as well as in Métis Nation of Alberta Districts 5 and 6.