5 Family-Friendly Stampede Activities

child sitting on his father's shoulders walking throughout the Stampede Midway
child sitting on his father's shoulders walking throughout the Stampede Midway
Family Fun

5 Family-Friendly Stampede Activities

How to Stampede with your family, from pancakes to puppies and everything in between

Looking to create family memories this summer? The Calgary Stampede is full of activities to do just that, with lots of things to do that are free or included with admission. Here are five family-friendly activities to enjoy during Stampede. 


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Pancake Breakfasts 

Start your day at The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth with a tall stack at a pancake breakfast. It’s a Calgary Stampede tradition and a great way to feed everyone in the family for free. There are pancake breakfasts throughout Calgary so check the schedule and enjoy. 

Family Day – July 7, 2024

Every year the Stampede throws a free pancake breakfast for Family Day. Stampede admission is free until 11 a.m. and the pancakes will be flying until 10 a.m. 

BMO Kids’ Day – July 10, 2024

There will be a free breakfast in the GMC Stadium Courtyard from 8-9:30 a.m. BMO Kids’ Day is a perfect time to bring the family to Stampede. Kids 12 & under are free all day and everyone is free until 10 a.m.  

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Pancake Breakfast during Family Day at Calgary Stampede

Visit the Pancake Breakfast during Family Day (Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede)

 

Farm in the City 

Experience the farm in the city with Agriculture Showcases at the Calgary Stampede. See farm demonstrations, take part in hands on activities, and interact with animals.  

If you need a break from walking the grounds, sit down and watch one of the Agriculture Competitions. The Heavy Horse Pull, World Stock Dog Championships, and Cowboy Up Challenge are fan favourites. 

Don’t forget to stop by the Milk and Cookies Shack for a treat after your day on the farm. 

 

Dog Bowl Entertainment 

Dog lovers, get ready for the most lovable performers around. The Dog Bowl is a family favourite at the Calgary Stampede. Talented pups show off their skills with agility poles, frisbee tricks, and free style dancing. 

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Little white dog participating in The Dog Bowl at Calgary Stampede

The Dog Bowl is not to be missed (Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede)

 

Midway Games, Treats, and Rides 

What kid doesn’t love games and sweets?  

Classics like mini donuts and cotton candy are hard to beat, but the adventurous should try the New Midway Food. The best way to burn off that new-found energy is trying to win a prize at the massive collection of carnival games. 

For thrill-seeking little ones, bring them to The Great FUNtier, which has specialty rides for kids. 

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Rides at The Great FUNtier

Rides at The Great FUNtier (Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede)

Carnival games at the Midway

Carnival games at the Midway (Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede)

 

Bell Grandstand Show Fireworks 

Finish off a perfect day at Stampede with nightly fireworks. The best view is from the seats at the Bell Grandstand Show. But you can spot the fireworks from just about anywhere on Stampede Park. Hold your family close and enjoy the show. 

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aerial view of the nightly fireworks at Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede boasts an impressive fireworks show all 10 nights during the festival (Photo Credit: Calgary Stampede)