Calgary Stampede Expected to Break All-Time Attendance Record

The Calgary Stampede is poised to shatter its all-time attendance record as crowds flock to Stampede Park for the final day of the event. The current record, set in 2012, is on the verge of being surpassed with over 1.33 million visitors already enjoying the festivities, according to statements made by Calgary Stampede officials.

President of the Calgary Stampede, Will Osler, revealed that the park had welcomed more than 156,400 guests on Saturday alone, marking the second-highest attendance figure of the year. He noted the remarkable turnout during the entire event, with more than 200,000 attendees on certain days, particularly during the well-received Tim Horton’s Family Day.

This year, the Stampede stands at an impressive total of 1,331,280 visitors, leaving it just over 78,000 visitors short of breaking the longstanding attendance record of 1,409,371. The recent numbers are a promising sign for exceeding last year’s total attendance of 1,384,632.

Joel Cowley, the CEO of the Calgary Stampede, underscored the significance of providing a positive experience for guests beyond merely numbers. He referenced a midweek survey that indicated a high level of guest satisfaction, with attendees expressing how easy the decision to attend the Stampede was and emphasizing the event’s importance within Calgary’s identity.

While around 26% of survey respondents hailed from outside of Calgary, reflecting the event’s draw from Canada and beyond, Cowley highlighted the stampede’s international appeal. The Stampede’s economic impact, estimated at $282 million for Alberta and $227 million for Calgary by Tourism Calgary, further demonstrates the event’s significance both locally and globally.

The dialogue extended to the diversity of Stampede attendees, with Cowley noting that 46% identified as visible minorities. This inclusivity, a pillar of Stampede’s ethos, reflects its commitment to welcoming visitors from all backgrounds and showcasing the richness of Western culture.