Is the Calgary Stampede Still Worth It?

By: A Calgarian Who's Seen It All
As a lifelong Calgarian, I've been to my fair share of Stampedes. From the pancake breakfasts to the chuckwagon races, I've experienced it all. But in recent years, I've started to wonder: is the Stampede still worth it?
Don't get me wrong, I love the Stampede. It's a celebration of our Western heritage, and it's a chance to show off our city to the world. But with the rising costs of admission and food, and the ever-increasing crowds, I'm starting to question whether it's worth the hassle.
For one thing, the Stampede is expensive. A single admission ticket costs over $30, and that doesn't even include food or drinks. If you want to bring your family, you're looking at spending hundreds of dollars.
And then there are the crowds. The Stampede attracts over a million people every year, and it can be tough to get around. You'll spend hours waiting in line for rides and food, and you'll be constantly jostling with other people.
Of course, the Stampede is more than just rides and food. It's also about the rodeo. And I have to say, the rodeo is still one of the best parts of the Stampede. The skill and bravery of the cowboys and cowgirls is amazing, and it's always exciting to watch.
But even the rodeo isn't what it used to be. In recent years, the Stampede has been criticized for its use of bucking straps and other devices that make the rodeo more dangerous for the animals. I understand that the rodeo is a tradition, but I think it's time to find a more humane way to do it.
So, is the Calgary Stampede still worth it? I don't know. It's definitely not the same Stampede that I grew up with. But it's still a unique and special event, and I'm glad that I've had the chance to experience it.
If you're thinking about going to the Stampede this year, I would recommend buying your tickets in advance. You'll save money, and you'll be able to avoid the worst of the crowds. And if you're not sure whether you can handle the crowds, I would recommend going on a weekday. It'll be less crowded, and you'll still be able to enjoy all the Stampede has to offer.
Ultimately, whether or not the Stampede is worth it is up to you. But I hope my thoughts have given you something to think about.