Organizers had 350,000 reasons to smile as a record estimated crowd of around 350, 000 lined the streets of downtown Calgary to take in the 112 Calgary Stampede Parade presented by Suncor.
“I could not be prouder of our team than I am today,” said Stampede Parade Committee Chair Blair Barkley. “These folks are a family and give it their all every year and are truly humbled by the tremendous response.”
Calgarians and visitors could not have been treated to better weather to be wowed by a line-up of more than 100 entries, featuring 19 floats, 11 bands, and 9 mounted colour parties.
"There is no better way to start The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth than with the Stampede Parade,” commented local influencer, Mr. Fabulous. “The feeling is electrifying! When I hear the Show Band coming and I see the first entry, it’s instant goosebumps! I know I’m in a two hour show like no else!”
Entries were judged in 15 categories, eight of which are equine-specific. The best overall horse entry winner was long-time parade participants: Alberta Friesian Horse Association, which also won in the Best Horse Drawn Category.
The trio of Celebrity Judges, Heartland’s Amber Marshall, Chris Potter, and Shaun Johnston selected the Taipei First Girl’s High School Marching Band as their favourite, while Parade enthusiasts chose INDIA! That is BHARAT (Calgary Marathi Community Association) as the C977 Fan Favourite.
Find a full list of winners here.
About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Media Relations
E media.relations@calgarystampede.com
Recent News
Coca-Cola Stage Turns Up the Volume as 100-Day Countdown to Stampede 2026 Begins
March 25, 2026With just 100 days to go until the 2026 Calgary Stampede, the countdown to The Greatest Music Festival in the West starts now with the announcement of this year’s Coca-Cola Stage line-up, bringing fans another unforgettable 10 days of live music on Stampede’s most iconic stage from July 3-12.
Calgary Stampede to launch inaugural First Nations Rodeo & Relay at GMC Stadium
March 20, 2026GMC Stadium will roar to life Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., as Indigenous athletes from across Canada and the United States compete in the inaugural Calgary Stampede First Nations Rodeo & Relay, showcasing heart‑pounding rodeo action and lightning‑fast relay races.
Calgary Stampede and CMLC share first glimpse of bold new 20-year vision to shape the future of Stampede Park
March 18, 2026Responding to growing development momentum, the updated master plan expands Stampede Park’s capacity as a year-round gathering place for the community.