Written by: Visit Stampede / Photo Credits: Calgary Stampede, Calgary Herald, Canadian Tourism Commission, Glenbow Archives, Rocky Mountain Outlook, CBC
The Calgary Stampede, “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” has long attracted a remarkable cast of celebrities, royalty, and cultural icons. Their appearances have helped shape the event’s legacy, blending Western tradition with international star power. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable figures who have left their mark on the Stampede, with corrections and clarifications for historical accuracy.
Queen Elizabeth II (1951, 1959, 1973)
Queen Elizabeth II’s first taste of Stampede spirit came in October 1951, when she visited Calgary as Princess Elizabeth. Although her visit didn’t coincide with the official event, a special one-day Stampede was organized just for her, complete with a snowstorm. She was so taken by the experience that she returned as Queen for the official Stampede in 1959 and again in 1973, each time drawing enormous crowds and reinforcing the deep ties between Canada and the monarchy.
King Charles III (1977)
Then Prince Charles attended the Stampede in 1977 as part of Treaty 7 centennial ceremonies. During his four-day Alberta visit, he immersed himself in Western culture, attended rodeo events, and charmed locals with his wit and approachability. His visit showcased the enduring relationship between the British royal family and the people of Calgary.
Prince William & Princess Kate (2011)
Fresh from their royal wedding, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited the Stampede in 2011. Their appearance at the parade, donning white Smithbilt hats, was a highlight of the year and a symbol of the event’s global appeal. Their enthusiasm for Calgary’s Western traditions won over crowds and media alike.
The Hart Family (Many Years)
Calgary’s own “royalty,” the Hart family, made the Stampede synonymous with wrestling. Stu Hart’s Stampede Wrestling was broadcast from the grounds to over 50 countries, and the family’s year-end events were major attractions. Wrestling legends like André the Giant, Harley Race, and Bret “The Hitman” Hart participated, and Stu’s parade floats—often wrestling rings on wheels—became legendary for their frequent breakdowns, adding to local lore.
Walt Disney (1965)
A year before his death, Walt Disney served as Parade Marshal for the 1965 Stampede. Disney’s friendship with Calgary philanthropist Max Bell brought him to the city, and his presence symbolized the merging of Western tradition with the magic of Hollywood. His visit remains a highlight in Stampede history.
Mickey & Minnie Mouse (1972, 1983, 1995)
Mickey Mouse served as Parade Marshal in 1972, with Minnie joining him in 1983 and 1995. Their appearances delighted families and underscored the ongoing partnership between Disney and the Stampede, a relationship that continues through special events and attractions.
William Shatner (2014)
The Star Trek legend and proud Canadian boldly went where many celebrities have gone before, serving as Parade Marshal in 2014. Shatner embraced the Western spirit, proving that even a starship captain can feel at home in cowboy boots.
Roy Rogers (1962, 1969)
Roy Rogers, the “King of the Cowboys,” was a natural fit for the Stampede. His most famous appearance was in 1962, when he and Dale Evans performed 10 sold-out shows at the Stampede Corral during the event’s 50th anniversary—a major cultural highlight. In 1969, Rogers returned as a parade participant, further cementing his bond with Calgary’s Western heritage.
Bob Hope (1963)
The iconic comedian and entertainer brought his trademark humour to the Stampede in 1963, serving as Parade Marshal. Hope’s embrace of the cowboy spirit and his ability to connect with audiences made his visit a memorable moment in Stampede history.
Robert F. Kennedy (1966)
U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy attended the Stampede in 1966, reinforcing the event’s international profile. His visit was seen as a significant moment, bridging American political culture and Canadian Western tradition at a time when Kennedy was a prominent figure on the world stage.
Christopher Reeve (1993)
In 1993, Christopher Reeve—famed for his role as Superman—returned to Calgary as Parade Marshal. Having previously filmed Superman III in the city, Reeve’s appearance was a full-circle moment that celebrated both his cinematic legacy and Calgary’s growing reputation as a film location. He led the parade on horseback, embodying heroism in a cowboy hat.
Lanny McDonald (1989 and Other Years)
The Calgary Flames legend became a Stampede staple, especially after bringing the Stanley Cup to the event in 1989 following the Flames’ victory. While not officially Parade Marshal in 1983 or 1986, his appearances—often sporting his trademark mustache and cowboy hat—made him a beloved figure at the Stampede, symbolizing Calgary’s passion for hockey and community spirit.
Kevin Costner (2022)
Hollywood star Kevin Costner, known for his roles in Westerns and the series Yellowstone, was Parade Marshal in 2022. He showcased his horsemanship and performed with his band, blending film, music, and cowboy culture in a way that resonated deeply with Stampede-goers.
Ken Taylor (1980)
Canadian ambassador Ken Taylor, famed for his role in the Iran Hostage Crisis, was honoured as Parade Marshal in 1980. His courageous actions during the “Canadian Caper” made him a national hero, and his Stampede appearance was a celebration of Canadian values and international diplomacy.
Bing Crosby (1959)
The legendary crooner and actor served as Parade Marshal in 1959. Crosby, a friend of Max Bell and an enthusiast for horse racing, brought Hollywood glamour and musical prestige to the Stampede, further elevating its status as a world-class event.
Paul Brandt (1990, 1992, 2012, 2014, 2016)
Country music star Paul Brandt began his journey at the Stampede Talent Search, winning in 1992. He headlined the Grandstand Show during the Stampede’s Centennial in 2012 and has remained a fixture at the event, representing Alberta’s enduring country music tradition.
Ian Tyson (2012)
Folk and country legend Ian Tyson, famed for “Four Strong Winds,” was co-Parade Marshal for the Stampede’s 100th anniversary in 2012. Tyson’s deep ties to Alberta ranching and Western music made his selection a fitting tribute to the event’s roots.
Chris Hadfield (2001, 2013)
Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield traded his space suit for cowboy boots as Parade Marshal in 2001 and 2013. His appearances inspired audiences, showing that the spirit of adventure and exploration is alive both on the frontier and in space.
The Three Stooges (1963)
The legendary comedy trio brought their slapstick antics to the Stampede in 1963, performing at the “Three Stooges Fun Fest.” Their visit proved that comedy and cowboy culture could make for an unforgettable combination.
Shania Twain (2025)
Last, but certainly not least on our list is this year’s entry. The Canadian country music superstar will grace the Saddledome stage on July 5 to a sold out crowd. The day before, she will dazzle about 300,000 adoring fans as the Parade Marshal on the streets of Calgary.
These celebrity appearances have helped define the Calgary Stampede as a unique crossroads of Western heritage and global pop culture, ensuring its place as one of the world’s most iconic festivals.
