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One of the most popular attractions in Canada in the "Cowboy Way of Life" you can find in and around Calgary Alberta. 

You can still find an authentic "cowboy way of life" in Calgary. Not only can you visit one of the many guest ranches outside of Calgary, if you time it right, you can enjoy the "the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth" (The Calgary Stampede) for 10 days in July. It usually takes place from the first Friday in July to the second Sunday in July.

Each summer, hundreds of thousands of people from around the world come each year to enjoy the rodeos, the fair, the parade and the excitement of this way of life! The whole city gets involved, you will find everyone wearing their cowboy hats and clothes to work, including the transit workers and business people. You will find parties everywhere, and the store windows are decorated in anticipation of the event.

The rodeo itself draws cowboys from as far away as Brazil to try and win their share of the $2 million prize money. The events take place each day and the evening ends with an incredible fireworks show. If you can make sure you see the Chuck Wagon racing - I saw it years ago and the loved it!

 
Stampede Parade - Photo from thivierr

Even Prince William and his bride Kate Middleton visited and spoke at the Stampede on their first trip to Canada and abroad as a married couple.

The 10 days in July that this event takes place are the busiest time of the year. Here are some tips to make sure that you get to see and do everything you wanted to:

• Book early - Calgary hotels and car rentals sell out early, so book months ahead of time
• Buy your tickets to the events as early as possible too. Some buy them as early as November the year before!
• Plan to spend at least 2 days at the stampede, chances are that you won't get to see and do it all
• Find out when "Free hat day" is and you can get a free Cowboy Hat
• Bring your western wear - time to bring out your cowboy boats, or buy a pair as a souvenir
• Buy standing room only tickets for big events to save some money
• Don't forget to check out the Indian Village
• Make sure you get to the parade really early and stake out your viewing space
• If you don't want to get up that early, then you can watch the parade on TV from the comfort of your hotel room
• Make sure you try the mini donuts - you will be glad you did
• Avoid driving anywhere near the Stampede grounds, take Calgary transit
• Check out the official Stampede website for more information