CALGARY, AB (Oct. 30, 2026) — She proved herself in the saddle, on the stage and in conversation. Kyla Lightfoot was crowned the 2027 Calgary Stampede Princess Friday night at Sam Centre on Stampede Park, chosen from seven outstanding contestants who were evaluated on their horsemanship, public speaking and interview skills.
“The Royalty program is about much more than wearing a crown. It is about connecting with people, representing the Stampede and our community, and embracing the opportunity to make a meaningful impact throughout the year,” says Katelyn Gardner, chair of the Calgary Stampede Royalty Committee. “This year’s contestants brought an incredible combination of confidence, kindness and passion for the Stampede. Kyla stood out for her genuine nature, confidence in the saddle and her natural connection to those around her. We are very proud to welcome her as the 2027 Stampede Princess and look forward to seeing her embrace and represent the Stampede throughout her reign.”
Riding since age two, Lightfoot, 23, has participated in 4-H Alberta, extreme cowboy racing, gymkhana and reining, and is active in the Quarter Horse Association of Alberta show circuit, having earned multiple national championship titles. She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Communications in Journalism and Digital Media at Mount Royal University.
“This has been a lifelong dream since I was five years old, and this year felt right,” said Lightfoot. “I had this feeling inside that this was my year, and I threw my hat in the ring. I’m looking forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world to our community, as well as representing the Calgary Stampede at as many places as I can across Canada and the United States.”
Lightfoot will act as ambassador of the Calgary Stampede alongside Chondra Fox, who was crowned the 2027 First Nations Princess on Oct. 25. With their reigns officially running from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2027, they will attend hundreds of events over the course of the year, including The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, July 9-18, sharing and celebrating the Stampede’s Western heritage, cultures and community spirit, while benefiting from professional and personal development opportunities.
Learn more about the Royalty programs here.
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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 shares Western hospitality and community spirit. calgarystampede.com
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Media Relations
Calgary Stampede
media.relations@calgarystampede.com
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