The Calgary Stampede is an annual event held in Calgary, Alberta, Canada that attracts over a million visitors every year. Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” it is a celebration of western culture, including rodeo, chuckwagon racing, live music, and food.

But what is the history behind this beloved event? Let’s delve into the fascinating story of the Calgary Stampede and the surrounding area.

The Stampede’s Origins

The Calgary Stampede began in 1912 as a small rodeo competition, but quickly grew in size and popularity. The event was the brainchild of a group of businessmen who wanted to showcase the emerging agricultural industry of the region.

The first Stampede featured rodeo events such as bronc riding, steer wrestling, and calf roping, as well as a parade and a midway. The event was a success, and it continued to grow in size and scope over the following years.

A Tradition is Born

By the 1920s, the Calgary Stampede had become a beloved tradition in Western Canada, attracting visitors from across the country and beyond. The rodeo events continued to be a major draw, but other attractions were added, including live music, food vendors, and carnival rides.

During this time, the Stampede also became a symbol of the resilience and determination of the people of Calgary and the surrounding area. In 1924, a devastating fire swept through the city, destroying much of the downtown core. Despite this setback, the Stampede went ahead as planned that year, providing a much-needed sense of normalcy and hope for the community.

The Modern Era

In the decades that followed, the Calgary Stampede continued to evolve and grow. In the 1950s, chuckwagon racing was added to the rodeo events, and in the 1970s, the Grandstand Show was introduced, featuring elaborate musical and theatrical performances.

Today, the Calgary Stampede remains one of Canada’s largest and most popular festivals, attracting visitors from around the world. In addition to the rodeo events, it features live music from top performers, a midway with carnival rides and games, and a wide variety of food vendors offering everything from traditional barbecue to international cuisine.

Are you planning to attend the Calgary Stampede this year?

If so, are you looking for a unique accommodation experience? Look no further than Rocking R Guest Ranch and Wheatland Shores Campground! Located just a short drive from the Stampede grounds, east of Calgary, our ranch and campground offer the perfect base for your Stampede adventures.

Join the excitement of the world-famous Chuck Wagon Racing, an adrenaline-pumping event you can only witness during the Calgary Stampede. And with a variety of Stampede activities happening throughout the day, you won’t want to miss a moment of the action.

What can you do after the Stampede?

After a long day at the Stampede, come back to the peacefulness of our ranch and campground. Enjoy a relaxing evening in your cozy cabin or tent and take advantage of the lake access for some late-night fishing or boating.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Our ranch offers a range of activities, including horseback riding, kayaking, and even photography with horses. Nestled in the picturesque ridge where prairie meets foothills, just east of Calgary, Rocking R Guest Ranch offers an authentic western experience that includes guided horseback riding tours through beautiful landscapes where you can see wildlife such as eagles, coyotes, and deer.

Our experienced wranglers will guide you through the trails and ensure a safe and enjoyable ride. In addition to horseback riding, we have a variety of other more relaxing activities available, such as enjoying a soak in our hot tub or sipping a glass of wine on the porch enjoying the sunset, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the western lifestyle.

And at Wheatland Shores Campground, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from kayaking and paddle boarding to birdwatching and stargazing. Our campground features spacious sites for tents and RVs, with options for both full and partial hookups. But that’s not all – our campground also has direct access to the lake, providing even more opportunities for breathtaking photos and outdoor activities. So, come and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Wheatland Shores Campground during your stay at the Rocking R Guest Ranch.

Where is the Rocking R Guest Ranch located?

Our ranch and campground are conveniently located just a short drive east of Calgary, making it the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Experience the thrill of chuck wagon racing at the Calgary Stampede, held annually in July. Don’t miss out on all the other fun things to do during the Stampede, such as live music, carnival rides, and delicious food.

After a day at the Stampede, return to the ranch for a relaxing evening under the stars, or enjoy some late-night fishing or boating at Wheatland Shores Campground. Book your stay at Rocking R Guest Ranch and Wheatland Shores Campground today and experience the Stampede like never before. You won’t regret immersing yourself in the western lifestyle, exploring beautiful landscapes on horseback, and enjoying the tranquility of the Wheatland Shores Campground.

Contact us to book your stay today at [email protected] or book online. https://rockingrguestranch.com/cabin-rentals/