How to Experience the Calgary Stampede on a Budget:
Big Fun, Small Cost
Written by: Visit Stampede / Photos By:
The Calgary Stampede, famously known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” promises excitement, entertainment, and unforgettable memories. But what if you’re trying to enjoy the Stampede without busting your wallet? The good news is, with a little creativity and planning, you can experience the Stampede on a budget! From discounted admission days to thrift store finds and free entertainment, here’s how to make the most of this iconic event while keeping costs low. Let’s go from start to finish.
1. Save Big on Attire
An important part of Stampede is looking the part. You need to look like a cowboy and that’s not cheap! Get that perfect Stampede look – without spending a fortune!
- Thrift Stores: Your local thrift store is a treasure trove for affordable cowboy boots, plaid shirts, and denim. With a little hunting, you’ll be rodeo-ready for a fraction of the cost. If you are from Calgary, or hoping to get clothing once you get to Calgary, understand Calgary thrift stores do raise their prices on western wear as Stampede gets closer.
- Western Wear Stores: Specialty shops like Lammle’s Western Wear often have end-of-season sales or clearance items. If you plan early, you can wait for a great sale to get what you need.
- Online Marketplaces: Facebook, Craigslist, Kijiji, eBay, and more, have everything you need and at incredible prices if you give yourself time to get the best deal.
2. Take Public Transit
Parking near the Stampede grounds can be expensive. Instead, use Calgary Transit for an affordable way to get to and from the festivities. The drawback is, the train gets very crowded during Stampede “rush hour” times, like after the Fireworks, or in the first couple hours of it opening for the day.
3. Find Freebies All Over the City
The Stampede spirit spills beyond the grounds, and you can enjoy a range of free events, activities, and giveaways before you even get there:
- Stampede Breakfasts: Nothing beats a free pancake breakfast! Across Calgary, you’ll find community groups, businesses, and churches hosting free Stampede breakfasts with pancakes, sausages, and entertainment.
- Parade Day: The Stampede Parade kicks off the festivities with vibrant floats, marching bands, and performers. Arrive early, stake out a spot, and enjoy the spectacle for free.
- Corporate Giveaways: There are often businesses who set-up outside the grounds in high traffic areas, like Stephen Avenue, or near the entrances and parking lots, who have products to giveaway. Keep your eyes out when heading to the grounds.
4. Free or Discounted Admission!
The Stampede offers multiple ways to save on admission, especially if you’re flexible with your schedule:
- Sneak-a-Peek Night: Arrive the evening before the official opening for only $13.00 and a sneak preview of the midway and attractions.
- Value Days: This year’s value days are July 4, 6, 8 & 9.
- Suncor Parade to the Park – July 4: Free Admission from 11am to 1:30pm
- Tim Hortons Family Day – July 6: Free Admission from 8am to 11am
- TC Energy Community Day – July 8: Free Admission till 2pm for Adults and Kids. Seniors are free all day.
- BMO Kids Day – Free Admission for kids all day. Adults are free till 10am.
Discounts: Each year there are a number of deals with grocery stores for cheaper entry. Sign up as a Visit Stampede VIP to find out when all the discounts are released. See our section on Discounts & Freebies for all of the 2025 information as it becomes available.
5. Budget-Friendly Food
While midway food is part of the fun, it can get pricey. Here’s how to indulge without overspending:
- Bring Snacks: Pack your own snacks and water bottles (just ensure they comply with Stampede ground rules).
- Sharing Is Caring: The midway’s oversized portions are perfect for sharing. Split a bucket of mini donuts or a giant corn dog with friends or family.
- Free Food: Tim Hortons Family Day on July 6 has a free Pancake Breakfast till 10am or while supplies last. BMO Kids Day on July 9 has a free breakfast till 9:30am at GMC Stadium.
- $2 Milk & Cookies: Outside the Agriculture Barn, next to the Nutrien Event Centre, there is a shed that sells milk & cookies. All the money goes to Calgary Food Bank. This is the perfect snack for kids and adults.
6. Enjoy Free and Affordable Entertainment
The Stampede grounds are filled with free or low-cost activities:
- Free Shows: Many live performances, including Dog Bowl, Cirque Stage of Wonders, Stampede Showband, Powwow, Motocross, and more.
- Free Concerts: Nashville North, Coca-Cola Stage, & Big Four Building all host big-name artists and up-and-coming acts, all included in your Stampede ticket.
- Rush Tickets: Want to see the Rodeo or the Evening Show and don’t really care where you sit? You can buy tickets for the day on the grounds for about $20 each.
7. Opt for Pre-Purchased Ride Packages
If you’re a thrill-seeker, midway rides can add up quickly. Save money by purchasing the Ride All Day Pass at local grocery stores to save 25%.
Experience the Stampede Without Breaking the Bank
With a mix of strategic planning, discounted admission options, and free entertainment, the Calgary Stampede can be as kind to your wallet as it is to your spirit. Whether you’re enjoying pancakes at a free breakfast or grooving to live music on the Coca-Cola Stage, the memories you create don’t have to come at a high cost. Yahoo! to budget-friendly fun!
