The Calgary Journal’s take on what to check out this year
It’s that time of year again where Calgarians break out their plaid shirts, cowboy boots and 10-gallon hats. Year after year the Stampede is the cowboy heart and soul of the Calgary’s summer. This year there are many exciting events lined up and also some classics: here is one Calgarian’s take on some Stampede events to check out:
The World Stock Dog Championship
The dog show is a classic Stampede feature.This is a good show for families, especially those with young children. However, even with multiple shows a day you are not always likely to get tickets; it’s that popular! It doesn’t last that long so it is a nice break from whatever weather Calgary has given you that day and the crowds. This show takes place July 4-6.
The Grand Stand Show
On its website, the Calgary Stampede describes this nightly show as “a variety extravaganza that includes comedy, elaborate song and dance numbers, acrobatics and the spectacular fireworks finale. The night will be among the most memorable of your life!” Brought to life by the Young Canadians, the show is a lively capstone to a busy rodeo and a day ending with fireworks. It is held every night of the Stampede. Also, if the rodeo is not your thing then skip and just see the variety show.
The Stampede Parade and Breakfast
The annual parade kicks off this 10-day party on July 4. It starts at 8:55 a.m., though I would 
The Calgary Stampede takes over downtown from July 4 to 13. The annual Stampede Parade will kick off the festivities on Friday, July 4.
Photo courtesy of David Tsega/Flickr.highly suggest that you get downtown a lot earlier than that to make sure you get a good spot. You can go to the Stampede website, calgarystampede.com, to purchase a reserve seating package. The parade route will include 9 Avenue to 10th Street S.W. then down 6 Avenue. The parade marshal will be Canadian legend, William Shatner.. It is good-old family friendly fun that has lots of music, dancing and floats to entertain parents and the kids.
The Trews
One of Canada’s most popular bands, The Trews, will take the Coca-Cola Stage on July 12 at 9 p.m. Originally from Antigonish, N.S., the band will be playing songs from their new album, simply titled “The Trews.” After earning two Canadian gold albums and 13 top 10 singles — even a couple of number one hit songs — this is one band that you will not want to miss. A true Canadian band for a true Canadian outdoors show.
Iggy Azalea and Snoop Dogg
Now, for all you hip-hop and R&B lovers this is the concert for you. Yes, we will have seen our fair share of proud Canadian bands and big country stars such as Reba, but the Cowboys Stampede Tent will be hosting rising star Iggy Azalea and the legendary Snoop Dogg on July 13. This is the way you want to end your Stampede week — with a bang. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the shenanigans will probably keep going until late into the night. The Cowboys Stampede Tent is located at 421, 12th Ave., S.E., so feel free to catch a few rides, take a break at the beer gardens, grab some oh-so-good yet so-bad-for-you food and then live it up with Iggy and Snoop D-O-Double G! Yo!