On the debut day of the Calgary Stampede, 25-year-old Allison Zhou proudly displays a unique ube-flavoured corn cob adorned with white and black sesame seeds. Zhou, a recent Toronto transplant, finds the $15 price tag a bit steep but is eager to indulge in the novel experience.
As the midpoint of 2025 approaches, Canada’s economy faces challenges following U.S. President Donald Trump’s return to office, sparking a disruptive trade war impacting consumer spending, employment, and travel plans.
Despite recession concerns, the Calgary Stampede, renowned as the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” commences with a vibrant 10-day extravaganza featuring thrilling rides, lively concerts, and bronco performances, signaling a festive atmosphere amid economic uncertainties.
Teenager Colton Denis, armed with a SuperPass for daily Stampede attendance, enthusiastically explores the festival grounds, exclaiming his readiness to splurge without a set budget. Alongside teenagers, older attendees like Doug Coleman from the Maritimes express a willingness to indulge in the festivities, embracing the carefree spirit of the event.
Among the array of extravagant offerings at the Stampede, including a $26 crocodile-themed lemonade bucket, a $13 jumbo corndog, and $16 garlic parmesan fries, attendees like Fred Parafina find joy in snagging bargains, such as a pair of discounted Lane snake-skin boots for his wife.
The Stampede’s spirited atmosphere is further fueled by the record-setting tarp auction, where companies bid to sponsor teams in the iconic chuckwagon race, reflecting growing enthusiasm and commercial support for the event.
Stampede organizers anticipate robust attendance in 2025, building on the previous year’s record-breaking turnout, with strong ticket sales and premium seat reservations indicating high interest in the rodeo and chuckwagon races.
Despite economic uncertainties, Stampede spokesperson Julie Forget notes a trend of increased local attendance, with fewer American visitors traveling to Canada overall, although Calgary stands out as a preferred destination.
Economist Mark Parsons highlights the positive outlook in Alberta, buoyed by factors such as the first-ever liquefied natural gas exports, renewed interest in major energy projects, and favorable interest rates, fostering optimism amidst trade disruptions.
The Stampede, a barometer of Alberta’s economic sentiment, mirrors the region’s growth, with a surge in population and a sense of optimism reflected in the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, drawing enthusiastic attendees like Todd Scott, who embraces the event as a time for unlimited enjoyment.
