New sweet treats and daring bites hit the Midway at Stampede 2024

With a menu full of new and exciting flavours to try, this year’s new Stampede Midway food has everything from savory and sweet indulgences to truly daring and unique dishes for Stampede 2024, July 5-14.

Whether its bold combinations or familiar favourites, put your tastebuds to the test with Cheeseburger Ice Cream, Mexican Street Corn Ice Cream, Flamin Cheesy Takis Dog, Oreo Cheesecake Mini Donuts and Dill Pickle Cotton Candy.

“Each year the Stampede’s Midway is the ultimate destination for food enthusiasts seeking bold, daring and unique flavours that give our festival favourites unforgettable twists,” says Ashley Warner, Midway Manager at the Calgary Stampede. “The Midway’s food vendors work all year to curate one-of-a-kind culinary creations that are exclusive to the Stampede. Make sure to bring your appetite because there is no shortage of options for every craving.”

Stampede Insiders were invited to share their wildest and most imaginative ideas to name one of the Midway’s new food items. Those up to the challenge got the chance to name The Happy Fish’s Stampede exclusive – a Takoyaki full of meat floss, seaweed strips, pickled ginger, cabbage and large chunks of octopus. With over 1300 entries from the community, the winning name Cowboyaki is a perfect fusion of the Stampede and the popular Japanese street food.

“Bringing our unique flavours to the Calgary Stampede is a highlight for us, and the community’s enthusiasm in naming one of our exclusive dishes for this year has made this experience even more special,” says Ying Yan Situ, Events & Operations Manager at Happy Fish Catering. “We’re thrilled to introduce the Cowboyaki, blending the best of Japanese street food with a Stampede twist.”

If octopus isn’t your thing, don’t worry – there are over 70 food vendors lining the Midway showcasing their creative flair and innovative flavours with over 50 new dishes.

With a history of bringing new flavours to this Stampede Midway favourite, this year’s Gator Pepperoni Pizza will not disappoint pizza lovers. The fire roasted flatbread pizza is topped with ripe crushed tomatoes, mozzarella, caramelized onions, basil and locally handcrafted alligator pepperoni.

Another Stampede icon is getting a twist. In a blend of sweet and spicy, the Cowboy Candy Colossal Onion features candied jalapeños, hot cheese, bacon bits and chives.

Don’t let the summer heat stop you from enjoying everything the Stampede has to offer, cool down and refresh with new takes on classic treats including Sour Candy Soft Serve, Whipped Lemonade, Watermelon Burger and Pina Colada Boba Lemonade.

Find the complete list of new foods and photos here.

Looking to satisfy your cravings and Stampede food nostalgia? All your festival favourites can still be found on the Midway. From corn dogs and mini donuts to funnel cakes and freshly squeezed lemonade, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

There are only 58 days until Stampede 2024! Fuel your day with fun bites before enjoying experiences like the Stampede Rodeo and Evening Show. Tickets are on sale now and you can get the best seats in the house by visiting 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 more information, please contact:
Tyla Nixon
Communications Advisor
T 403.837.3457
E tnixon@calgarystampede.com