Calgary, Alberta is home to the Calgary Stampede, ten-day rodeo and agricultural exhibition held the second week of July each year that bills itself “the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”.
The first Stampede was held in 1912 and attracted almost 40.000 visitors its first year, far more than anyone expected. Attendance at the 2006 Stampede was a record-breaking 1.26 million people. Stampede organizers recommend that anyone who wants to attend the event make reservations well in advance.
The Stampede is famous for its chuck-wagon race, reminiscent of the races cowhands would have in celebration at the end of long trail rides. Other rodeo events include pro and novice bareback competitions, bull riding, saddle bronco riding, both pro and novice, barrel racing, wild pony racing, and several roping events.
