Written by Visit Stampede / Photo Credits: Calgary Stampede
If you’re heading to the Calgary Stampede for the first time, you’re in for a thrilling display of skill, speed, and pure grit. The Stampede Rodeo is the heart of the festival, featuring the world’s top cowboys and cowgirls competing in seven action-packed events. Here’s your quick guide to understanding each event, so you can cheer like a pro and truly appreciate the spectacle.
1. Barrel Racing
What’s it about?
Barrel racing is a fast-paced event where cowgirls (and sometimes cowboys) race their horses around a cloverleaf pattern of three barrels. The goal is to complete the course as quickly as possible without knocking over any barrels.
Watch for:
Incredible horsemanship, tight turns, and the sheer speed of the horses. Every second counts!
2. Bull Riding
What’s it about?
Bull riding is one of the most dangerous and dramatic rodeo events. The cowboy must stay on a bucking bull for eight seconds, using only one hand on a rope tied around the bull’s chest.
Watch for:
The power and unpredictability of the bulls, and the riders’ bravery and balance.
3. Tie-Down Roping
What’s it about?
Also known as calf roping, this event tests a cowboy’s speed and precision. The cowboy on horseback must chase a calf, rope it, dismount, and tie three of its legs together—as quickly as possible.
Watch for:
The teamwork between horse and rider, and the cowboy’s quick hands as he ties the calf.
4. Steer Wrestling
What’s it about?
Steer wrestling, or “bulldogging,” is a test of strength and timing. The cowboy on horseback chases a steer, leaps from his horse, and wrestles the steer to the ground by grabbing its horns.
Watch for:
The incredible speed of the horse, the cowboy’s athleticism, and the split-second timing required for a successful takedown.
5. Saddle Bronc Riding
What’s it about?
In saddle bronc riding, the cowboy rides a bucking horse while holding onto a thick rein attached to a halter. The rider must stay on for eight seconds, spurring the horse with each jump.
Watch for:
The rhythm between rider and horse, and the cowboy’s ability to stay balanced and in control.
6. Bareback Riding
What’s it about?
Similar to saddle bronc, bareback riders must stay on a bucking horse for eight seconds—but with no saddle. The rider grips a “rigging” (a handle on a strap) and uses only one hand.
Watch for:
The wild, uncontrolled bucking of the horse and the rider’s strength and grip.
7. Breakaway Roping
What’s it about?
Breakaway roping is similar to tie-down roping but is typically for women. The cowboy or cowgirl chases a calf, ropes it, and the rope breaks away from the saddle when the calf is caught.
Watch for:
The quick release of the rope and the rider’s precision in catching the calf.
Pro Tips for Enjoying the Rodeo
- Buy Tickets Early: Rodeo tickets sell out fast, so secure yours as soon as possible—ideally online before you arrive.
- Choose Your Seats Wisely: For the rodeo, the best views are in the middle sections of the grandstand, as close to the action as you can get. If you want shade or rain protection, look for seats higher up.
- Arrive Early: Gates get busy, and you’ll want time to find your seat, grab snacks, and soak in the atmosphere before the action starts.
- Dress for the Weather: Calgary in July can be hot and sunny or rainy—wear a hat, sunscreen, and bring a compact rain jacket just in case.
- Bring Cash: Many vendors only accept cash, and ATMs on-site can have long lines.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll do a lot of walking, and comfy footwear is a must.
