CALGARY STAMPEDE

Although the city is accustomed to hosting numerous festivals, their success and scope are no match for the Stampede, the world's largest rodeo. Every July, its parades, shows and competitions attract over a million spectators. Over the course of ten days, the entire city undergoes a metamorphosis.
The Stampede parade, made up of some 30 bands, dignitaries on horseback and vintage vehicles, travels down 6th Avenue from MacLeod Trail SE to 9th Street SW, then south to 9th Avenue SW before returning to 4th Street. Rodeo horses traditionally start at the Stampede Ranch near Hanna, north of Calgary, and travel across the plains and through the city to the Scotiabank Saddledome, a multi-sport stadium in the shape of a horse's saddle.
The rodeo consists of six main events: the Saddle Bronc (saddling a wild horse), the Bareback (the most physical event, where the rider rides a horse bareback, without saddle or bridle), the Bull Riding (the horses are replaced by bulls - an extraordinary spectacle!), Steer Wrestling (mounted on a galloping horse, the cowboy has to immobilize a young steer as quickly as possible), Tie-down Roping (the cowboy has to lasso a young bull) and Barrel Racing (a women's barrel racing event).
The winner of each event pockets several thousand dollars. Some lose their lives in the process, but that doesn't stop seasoned cowboys vying for a place at this eagerly-awaited annual event. The event also includes the same events for juniors. The Mutton Busting consists of young cowboys being mauled by sheep. In the evening, the horse-drawn wagon races offer an unforgettable spectacle in an overheated atmosphere.
Alongside the events, the Stampede also features an agricultural show where the finest cattle specimens are on display, a horse show and an Indian village (sic!) where all the local tribes are represented.

Please visit the website to reserve your tickets - it's advisable to book well in advance. It's also possible to reserve seats for musical performances, and packages are also available. And don't forget to book your accommodation as early as possible - it's in high demand at this time of year.