Step into Tradition: Applications Now Open for the 2025 Calgary Stampede Parade Presented by Suncor

The Stampede Parade presented by Suncor is Calgary’s largest annual one-day event and applications to participate in the 2025 edition are now open! Community groups, cultural organizations, local and national businesses, service clubs, marching bands and equine enthusiasts of all kinds are invited to apply to take part in this yearly extravaganza, happening on Friday, July 4, 2025.

Entries to participate in this year’s Parade will close February 15, 2025, so don’t miss this chance to be a part of this celebrated tradition!

A world-class event and an iconic part of Calgary’s cultural identity, the Stampede Parade presented by Suncor attracted over 350,000 spectators along the Parade route through downtown Calgary in 2024 and reached nearly 1.5 million people globally through traditional and social media. Since 1912, this awe-inspiring display of floats, majestic horses and high-energy marching bands has served as the official kickoff to The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. More than just a parade, it’s a march through tradition, history and Calgary’s culture, offering organizations a unique opportunity to connect with the city’s rich heritage and reach a global audience.

“Whether it’s your first time or your fifty-first, the Calgary Stampede Parade promises an entertaining and unforgettable experience that unites our city in celebration and showcases our community organizations,” says Jason Balasch, Chair of the Parade Entries Subcommittee. “Participants bring fresh ideas to life each year, while our dedicated volunteers, who work year-round, ensure the Parade delivers exciting new surprises alongside fan favourites. We’re excited to see how the 2025 Parade will capture the spirit of Calgary and the Stampede.”

The Stampede Parade is a show unlike any other! Parade participants entertain all ages through creativity and cultural flair, while also reflecting the Stampede’s core values of Western hospitality, integrity, pride of place and commitment to community. Entries in the main parade, other than marching bands, should feature either a float or an equine component that captivates the crowd with its visual appeal. All entries are encouraged to tell a story or convey a meaningful message that aligns with a consistent theme.

A great float entry is fully decorated, with designs that extend to the accompanying participant costumes, creating a cohesive and striking presentation, while delighting fans along the route. Equine entries are another a hallmark of the Parade, with a stunning array of over 700 horses taking part annually. From mounted colour parties to heavy horse hitches pulling beautifully adorned wagons and coaches, equine entries always feature horse and rider decked out in their best parade regalia.

Performing arts groups, an integral part of the Stampede Parade, are invited to apply to be part of the Parade Prelude. Before the main Stampede Parade officially begins, musical performers, colourful dancers, children’s favourite characters and other performers set the stage at static locations along the Parade route. Their talent creates a lively atmosphere for spectators of all ages, getting toes tapping and hands clapping in anticipation of the main Parade.

Applications to participate in the 2025 Stampede Parade presented by Suncor are open until February 15. For more information and to apply, visit: calgarystampede.com/stampede/parade

Tickets for the 2025 Calgary Stampede Rodeo and Evening Show, happening July 4–13, are on sale now! Secure your seats today and join the excitement of The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth: calgarystampede.com/tickets.

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:

Lauryn MacDonald
Communications Advisor
Calgary Stampede
T 403.463.5986
E lauryn.macdonald@calgarystampede.com