Stampede spirit is alive and well at UCalgary

Many Calgarians were ready to hang their heads and cry when it was announced in April 2020 that the Calgary Stampede was cancelled for the first time in more than 100 years due to the coronavirus. But the greatest show on earth must go on, so the Calgary Stampede and its partners — including UCalgary — are offering many ways to get your fix of cowboy culture, midway food and community connection.  

Kristin Anderson, associate vice-president of community engagement at UCalgary, says a Calgary summer without Stampede week would be hard to take, so thanks to a little creativity and innovation, there are plenty of uniquely Calgarian moments planned for July 3 to 12.

“Calgarians have a strong sense of community, and the Stampede is a big part of that,” says Anderson. “At UCalgary, we usually kick off the Stampede with the President’s Barbecue, which serves more than 1,500 people each year. Most Calgarians have a Stampede tradition like that — one that connects them with their workplace, neighbourhood or city."

"The Stampede and their partners have reimagined some Stampede-style experiences that fit with public health recommendations so that we can still celebrate our community spirit together.”

Be like Rex and find safe ways to get into the Stampede spirit with friends and family

UCalgary’s Rex was one disappointed dinosaur when he learned the President’s Stampede Barbecue was cancelled, but — like a true Calgarian — he found a way to keep community spirit strong. Check out Rex’s story in the video below and keep scrolling for exciting Stampede event details.

UCalgary at the 2020 Stampede — be part of it

It’s easy to show your Stampede spirit at UCalgary —  wear a cowboy hat all week, stampedify your Zoom meeting background or listen to a little Luke Combs while you work. You can also read upcoming Stampede stories in UToday, and register for these western webinars. Check out all the details.   

Webinar: Up close and personal with Stampede horses 
July 7, 2 to 3 p.m. MT Register now

Horses are an integral part of every Calgary Stampede, as well as being crowd favourites. While we can't take in the rodeo or the chucks this year, we can still saddle up with equine expert Dr. Renaud Léguillette, PhD, and 2020 Stampede Parade Marshal Filipe Masetti Leite.

They'll talk about the research and scientific expertise that goes into caring for horses at the Stampede, share personal stories about what these amazing animals can do, and answer as many of your questions as they can. So gather up the young'uns, grab your boots and hats, and let's ride! 

Webinar: Canadian agriculture roots: A look back at the last 140 years in Canada
July 9, 11 a.m. to noon MT Register now

Explore what it was like to live in the Prairies in 1880 Canada. What did we grow, trade and store for the long winters and dry summers? What did agriculture look like at the time and how has it changed over the course of the last 140 years? From grain and dairy to livestock and produce, Canada has a long history of feeding the world. What lessons did we learn along the way and how did it shape the way Canada farms? Following the discussion, we will enjoy a bannock demonstration.

While we can’t be together in person this Stampede, join the Simpson Centre for Agricultural and Food Innovation and Public Education as we get back to our roots. 

Post your community spirit photos Twitter and Instagram

Stay tuned to UCalgary’s social media channels for plenty of Stampede-inspired content and share photos and videos that show how you are keeping community spirit strong — whether you’re donning western duds, getting together with friends for franks and beans over an open fire or volunteering in your community, we want to see it! Tag @UCalgary and use the hashtag #Stampede2020 Instagram and Twitter.

Celebrate with the Calgary Stampede

Sure, there’s no midway, grandstand show or rodeo, but the Calgary Stampede has planned some amazing ways for the community to get their Stampede fix this year. Find complete details on all listings.

Mini doughnut drive through: Stampede Park, July 6 to 7 and 9 to 11, noon to 9 p.m.
Purchase your mini doughnuts in advance and receive two free gate admissions to Sneak-a-Peek at the 2021 Calgary Stampede, courtesy of Bell.

Stampede food truck rally: Stampede Park and various Calgary locations, July 3 and 12, noon to 9 p.m.
From corn dogs to cotton candy, YYC Food Trucks is bringing you some beloved Stampede treats so you can still fulfill your Stampede foodie adventures.

BMO Kids’ Day pancake drive-through: Stampede Park, July 8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The BMO Kids' Day pancake drive-through pops up on Stampede Park for a free pancake breakfast. They’re serving them up different this year, but the tradition remains.

Stampeding at home
The Stampede has created tools to make your at-home Stampede celebrations more festive. Check out custom Zoom backgrounds, Spotify play lists and more!

We will ride again T-shirts
Commemorate this significant year with an authentic Stampede T-shirt featuring the promise that we will ride again at the Calgary Stampede.

Stampede the United Way

#UnitedApart Basic Needs Round-Up for United Way

The United Way and the Calgary Stampede are partnering for the #United Apart Basic Needs Round-Up. Show your local love on July 11 by taking part in a donation drive for basic needs items, such as grocery gift cards, diapers, personal hygiene products, and activity kits for kids and seniors. Learn more

The Social Impact Lab’s Disrupt-ATHON

Gather virtually to collaboratively re-think how we can solve social issues in our communities. Everyone is welcome to take part in the Disrupt-ATHON — sign up to join individually or as a team, or tune in to watch the virtual live stream on July 8. Learn more