Where Stampede Memories Begin & Return: How the Stampede Celebrates Community Year-Round

Powered by more than 3,000 volunteers across 35 committees, the Calgary Stampede brings Western hospitality and community spirit to life through impactful programs, including those led by the Promotion Committee and Downtown Attractions (DTA) Committee. From schoolyard pancake breakfasts to country music at senior care homes, these programs share the Stampede spirit with Calgarians of all ages, all year long. 

Happy Trails

Now in its 20th year, Happy Trails delivers monthly line dancing, live music and entertainment to senior centres and care facilities.  Run entirely by volunteers, the program brings the Stampede to those who may not be able to experience it in person.

“One of the most important parts of Happy Trails is bringing Stampede to residents who can’t experience it for themselves,” says Fran Eby, Promotion Committee Volunteer. 

On June 3, the Promotion Committee visited Bethany Riverview, a care centre for individuals with complex dementia. Stampede volunteers and Board Directors members filled the space with music, sparking joyful memories for residents.

“I’ve lived in Calgary since I was 12 and today brought me right back to my very first Stampede,” says resident Sandy Page. “We’d go to the Grandstand on Veterans Day because my stepfather was in the Army [and I remember] winning dolls on the Midway. I have many memories, and today brought them all back.” 

School Breakfast Program

The DTA Committee, best known for hosting the lively Fluor Rope Square each July on Stephen Avenue, also brings Western hospitality to Calgary schools throughout the year. 

Through its School Breakfast Program, the Committee visits up to 25 schools annually, serving pancakes to between 500 and 1,000 students at each stop. With a waitlist of up to three years, these events are eagerly anticipated.

“The best part is seeing the kids get fed and their happy faces,” says Don Norcross, a DTA Committee Volunteer for nearly 40 years. “These breakfasts are good for all students, no matter their background. It’s just a great get-together that spreads happiness.”

On June 4, DTA volunteers visited Fish Creek School, where Mountie the Stampede Moose joined parents and teachers in serving students aged 5 to 12.

“Events like a Calgary Stampede pancake breakfast give parents a chance to make memories with their kids and allow our Fish Creek community to celebrate something truly special and unique to Calgary,” says Suzanne Calabrese, Special Events Coordinator for the Fish Creek School Parent Council. “It not only promotes pride in our city but also shows students the power of community building and the value of volunteerism.” 

Through an unwavering commitment of Calgary Stampede volunteers, programs like the Happy Trails and the School Breakfast Program exemplify the spirit of Stampede and what it means to be Greatest Together.