2025 Calgary Stampede Royalty - What it Takes to Become and Ambassador

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to become a real-life Princess?

Each year, a number of young women put their courage to the test by applying to become the next Calgary Stampede Princess and the next Calgary Stampede First Nations Princess.

Each Royalty acts as an ambassador of the Calgary Stampede throughout their year-long reign, with the First Nations Princess additionally representing Elbow River Camp presented by Enbridge.

Together, the Princesses attend hundreds of events, sharing and celebrating Stampede’s Western heritage, cultures and community spirit locally and around the world.

While their roles as ambassadors will keep them busy until their reign ends on Dec. 31, both programs are now seeking applications for their upcoming contests to find the next First Nations Princess and next Stampede Princess to represent in 2026.

We caught up with the 2025 First Nations Princess, Pacey Strangling Wolf, and the 2025 Stampede Princess, Breanna Correia, to hear their thoughts on what it was like for them to apply for their roles and what it means when you let your courage take over.   
 
What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying but is nervous?

Princess Pacey: Being nervous just means you are extra ready to apply. I was so nervous, even through the application process! But if I didn’t put my name in the hat, I wouldn’t be here today.

Princess Breanna: It’s normal to be nervous. The Stampede Princess contest is the perfect opportunity to grow in your speaking, your horsemanship, and your confidence. Nerves are just part of the ride. 
 
When you were a contestant last year, what was the best part of being in the contest?
 
Princess Breanna: Being pushed not just as a horsewoman, but as a person. The contest is designed to help you discover who you are and to celebrate that. It’s a personalized experience with incredible support and encouragement from the Stampede family. You’re given the tools, education and opportunities to shine.
 
Princess Pacey: Meeting my fellow contestants. Even though only one of us got to be the Princess, I still cherish the memories I had with them. They are all incredibly inspiring young women. 

What words of encouragement can you offer to someone thinking of applying?

Princess Pacey: I encourage all eligible Treaty 7 applicants who want to apply to just do it. I have come a long way since last year's contest, and I am so excited for how much I’ve grown!

Princess Breanna: This role is about so much more than wearing a crown—it’s about heart, spirit, energy and love. Know yourself, trust yourself and take the leap. You’ll be amazed at where this journey takes you.
 
Interested in trying out to become the next Stampede Princess or First Nations Princess? Applications are open for the 2026 contests, with the First Nations Princess application closing on Sept. 23 at 4 p.m., and the Stampede Princess applications closing on Oct. 1 at 11:59 p.m.

The Stampede Princess Contest will evaluate contestants on their horsemanship, personal interviews and public speaking skills, while the First Nations Princess Contest will evaluate contestants on their public speaking, cultural knowledge and traditional dance performance. 

Find more information about the Calgary Stampede Royalty and the contest application forms here.