July 3: Learn to Swing Dance
Trade line dancing for swing dancing at Fly Right Swing’s Friday Night Hop. The evening starts with a beginner lesson before opening up into a social dance filled with live-energy jazz and plenty of opportunities to meet new people. No experience or dance partner is required, making it an easy entry point.
July 4: Shop Local at a Honky Tonk
The Honky Tonk Market combines a western-inspired market with local vendors, food, and an evening lineup of live music. “It’s not just a market, you’re not just there to shop; you’re also there to hang out,” says Laura Graham, co-founder of HTM Productions. Soak up western flavour without the sensory overload of the Stampede grounds.
July 5: Enjoy Yoga in the Park
Calgary Outdoor Yoga’s weekly session in Stanley Park offers a chill way to spend a Sunday afternoon. “It’s a very different way to experience Calgary during Stampede week,” says Krystal Scott, founder of Calgary Outdoor Yoga. The pay-what-you-can classes are designed for all skill levels and provide a chance to get outside, move your body, and reconnect with nature before diving back into the festivities.
July 6: Laugh Through Monday Night
Monday Open Mic Nights at the Comedy Cave bring together professional comics, touring performers, and local talent testing new material. Plus, poutine is 50 per cent off, and Wild Rose pints are discounted.
July 7: Tear Up Karaoke Night
If you’ve spent the week watching performers, why not become one? Karaoke Night at Kings Head Eatery invites you to grab a microphone and belt out your favourite Kings of Leon tune. Half-price tacos and margarita specials don’t hurt, either.
July 8: Catch a Different Kind of Concert
The Roundup MusicFest returns to Prince’s Island Park, bringing Billy Idol, David Lee Roth, Sloan and TOQUE to Calgary. “We’ve travelled all over the world to really try to emulate some of the best music festivals,” says Robert Duteau, festival organizer. For those looking for a huge festival vibe with significantly fewer cowboy hats, this might be the move.
View this post on Instagram
July 9: Dance the Night Away
Just a few blocks away from the party tents, electronic music artist BLOSSM is bringing funky bass house to the Velvet Room dance floor. “I try to take the audience through a journey and provide a space for everyone to dance and party and have fun,” says Tom Blhuer, artist behind BLOSSM. And the dark interior of Velvet is a refreshing change of temperature and pace.
July 10: Explore a Night Market
Part community gathering and part summer festival, the Inglewood Night Market is one of Calgary’s favourite warm-weather traditions. With more than 150 local vendors, food trucks, and live music, this is one of the most fun ways to spend a summer evening and get way ahead on your Christmas shopping.
View this post on Instagram
July 11: Support Local Music
The Brother Bicker Band and Of Ghosts & Glory celebrate a dual-release show at The BLOX Arts Centre on July 11. Discover Calgary’s independent music scene while supporting a community-focused arts venue. “We’re raring to go and ready to have a lot of fun, especially during Stampede,” says Brother Bicker lead singer Jeremy Hrdlicka.
July 12: Hit a Car Show
Enjoy a whole different kind of horsepower. The Bumper 2 Bumper Car Show and Off-Road Show provides a fitting finale to the Stampede. Expect custom builds, off-road rigs, and plenty of automotive enthusiasts gathering to celebrate all things on four wheels.
Stampede Hacks
If you do wind up at the city’s biggest cowboy convention, here are some quick tips:
- Plan your route: Park at a non-central CTrain station and ride in to avoid downtown congestion. Time your exit to avoid post-concert chaos.
- Don’t pay for entry: Several days offer free entry, so check the schedule if you’re flexible.
- Avoid the Coke Stage: Hang out near the river or the Erlton station while music is playing to avoid hyperventilating in a massive crowd.
- Bring snacks: Budget for one midway splurge (mini donuts, probably), and bring some sandwiches along for the rest of your excursion.
- Chill with a drink: Hit the BMO Centre and check out the Western Oasis for a climate-controlled space … and one of the rare spots to drink on the grounds.
Is it Ya-Hoo or Yee-Haw? You tell us! thescene@redpointmedia.ca
