It’s time for the Calgary Stampede!

Billing itself as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” this year’s Stampede is taking over Calgary until July 12th.

If you’re a newcomer settling into Calgary, don’t plan on getting much done over the next 10 days. Nearly all of Calgary will be out at the city’s biggest party!

So what’s the Stampede all about?

Even as Calgary has become increasingly urban, the biggest event of the year still has its roots in cowboy culture. The Stampede is a rodeo, county fair, and crazy party rolled into one.

What few people know, however, is that the Stampede has a U.S. connection. Here’s an excerpt from my book, Living Abroad in Canada, that explains:

The Stampede, which began in 1912, was the vision of an American expat. Born in Rochester, New York, Guy Weadick became a vaudeville and rodeo performer who appeared across North America.

In Calgary, he met H. C. McMullen, a livestock agent for the Canadian Pacific Railway, and they hatched a plan for a “wild west” show. They secured funding from several local businessmen, and the Stampede was launched.

The Stampede opens with a huge parade through downtown. Other attractions include chuck wagon races, calf roping, bull riding, horse shows, a carnival midway, and concerts by big-name entertainers. This year’s headliners include Reba McEntire, Taylor Swift, Kenny Chesney, and George Strait.

The Stampede typically draws more than 100,000 people per day, so pull on your boots and come on down!

Photo by sundeepg (flickr)