As we gear up for all things Stampede this year, we are thrilled to introduce the 2026 Calgary Stampede Royalty as they begin their reigns as ambassadors of the Calgary Stampede!
First Nations Princess Raegan First Rider and Calgary Stampede Princess Sarah O’Brien stepped into their roles on Jan. 1, 2026, and will act as ambassadors of the Calgary Stampede, attending hundreds of events throughout their reign, which runs until Dec. 31, 2026.
We caught up with the Princesses to learn more about them and how they feel heading into their year-long reigns.
Q: As Princess, what are you most looking forward to doing, seeing, or experiencing in 2026?
Sarah: Becoming the Calgary Stampede Princess has been a lifelong dream. I am excited to experience the Calgary Stampede from a whole new perspective, especially riding in the Stampede Parade. I previously rode in the Parade as a Stampede Showrider, so returning in this role feels full circle. I’m also very much looking forward to spending time with my Stampede sister, Raegan, and getting to know her as we share this once-in-a-lifetime experience together.
Raegan: Being the First Nations Princess is a dream come true. I’m very excited to travel this year. I’m also looking forward to learning more about Treaty 7 and connecting with different communities. I’m also looking forward to getting to know my Stampede sister, Sarah, as we walk through this journey together.
Q: The First Nations Princess Subcommittee is now over 60 years old. What does it mean to be part of the lineup of incredible women who have represented Elbow River Camp presented by Enbridge?
Raegan: It is an absolute honour to be a part of a legacy of incredible women who have represented the Calgary Stampede and Elbow River Camp. Every former First Nations Princess has embodied her role with pride, profound leadership, commitment and passion. I hope to embody and emulate the same energy and passion as generations before me, while inspiring the generations that will come into this role after me.
Q: As this is the 80th year of the Royalty Program, how do you feel about being the ambassador to the Calgary Stampede in such a special year?
Sarah: I feel incredibly honoured and privileged to serve as an ambassador during such a historic year. Being part of the 80th anniversary of the Royalty Program is truly humbling, and I am deeply grateful to follow in the footsteps of the many remarkable women who have represented the Calgary Stampede before me.
Q. What is something you would like people to know about you?
Sarah: I would like people to know that the Calgary Stampede has played a meaningful role in shaping who I am today. I’ve been involved for many years as both a volunteer and a Showrider, and those experiences have fostered a deep appreciation for community, tradition and service. I’m also a lifelong animal lover and have spent much of my life working closely with animals, from dogs to wildlife and zoo animals.
Raegan: I would like people to know that I’m looking forward to learning new skills and embracing these experiences along the way. I look forward to sharing my Blackfoot culture and for the community to get to know me as I represent my Blackfoot name to its fullest.
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