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Request a White Hat Ceremony

An iconic symbol of Calgary’s international reputation for unrivalled hospitality and our passion to be the Ultimate Hosts, Calgary’s identification with the white hat began when local Calgary hat maker, Smithbilt Hats, introduced the first white cowboy hat in 1946. Representatives of Calgary wore the white hats while cheering Calgary’s football team, the Calgary Stampeders, in the 1948 Grey Cup – Canada’s national football championship.

Since 1950, Calgarians have been proudly presenting the white cowboy hats to visitors, dignitaries and guests. Each year, thousands of white hats are presented to Calgary visitors through special White Hat Ceremonies. These ceremonies are a representation of friendship and welcoming – guests arrive in Calgary as visitors, and they leave as friends and honorary members of our community. The official ceremony includes the presentation of a white hat followed by the recipient repeating a short oath.

To request a White Hat Ceremony, please complete the form below. A member of Tourism Calgary will follow-up with you directly to review the request.

Tell us about your group

Type of Request (required)

Please select one:

Contact Details

If this is a personal request with no association to a company or organization, please enter "NA" in this field.

(if applicable) If this ceremony is being requested for a meeting/conference/convention, please include the name of the meeting or convention.

(if applicable) If this ceremony is being requested for a meeting/conference/convention, please include the website address.

Ceremony Request

Please be specific including name of venue and room.

Please be specific including name of venue and room.

How did you hear about the iconic White Hat Ceremony? (required)

Submission Notes

White Hats are required for all participants. Tourism Calgary can connect you with local hat suppliers to place an order. Although Tourism Calgary will make every effort to schedule a White Hat Ceremony for your guests, we may not be able to fulfill all requests based on the availability of volunteers. We kindly request a minimum of four weeks advance notice.