Staying safe and getting around the 2018 Calgary Stampede and parade

The Calgary Stampede – synonymous with eating an entire bag of mini donuts, spontaneously yelling “yahoo” (not “yeehaw”) and suits replaced by cowboy boots. Whatever your plans may be, here’s how we can help you stay safe, giddy up n’ go.

Stampede week

24 hour CTrain service

After a long day of Stampede fun, we’re here for you with 24 hour CTrain service. ‘Round the clock service begins the evening of July 5 and ends the late evening of July 15.

CTrain schedule during the Stampede:

  • Every five to eight minutes from 6 a.m. to 12:45 a.m.
  • Every 15 to 30 minutes from 12:45 a.m. to 5 a.m.

Discounted transit day passes

Discounted passes are available at 7-Eleven, Mac’s, Safeway, City Hall Cashiers and Calgary Transit Customer Service Centres. During the 10 days of Stampede, they will also be available through ticket vending machines located at CTrain stations for use on the same day.

Stampede transit day passes are valid for one full day (until 4 a.m. of the following day) between July 5 and 15. To validate the pass, scratch the day you are travelling prior to boarding a CTrain or bus.

The special price for adult day passes is $6.50 (reg. $10.50) and youth day passes are $4.50 (reg. $7.50).

Road closures

There will be a number of road closures during the Stampede that may affect your commute.

Stampede Parade day

Parade day road and parkade closures, bus detours

Road and parking impacts on parade day will include several parking lot closures. If you’re coming to the parade, we encourage you to walk, bike or use transit to get into the downtown core.

Find a comprehensive list of bus detours and info on how to take transit to the parade on Calgary Transit’s website.

Road closures and bus route detours become effective at 7:30 a.m. and end around 2 p.m.

Viewing the parade

We’ve reserved and will monitor eight accessible Stampede Parade viewing zones along the parade route for people with mobility challenges (canes, walkers, wheelchairs, scooters) and their friends and families.

Space is limited, so get there early. Look for barricades and signs. If space remains in the viewing areas after 8 a.m., they will be opened up to the public on a first-come, first-served basis.

The City in action


Street sweeper critters have been a Stampede tradition for nearly 15 years, bringing joy to parade goers and youth at the Children’s Hospital that are unable to travel to the Stampede parade – the most rewarding event of the year, according to street sweeper operators.

Taxi, limousine and ridesharing

Plan your ride for when your boots are done scootin’.

Taxis, limousine and rideshare companies are regulated by The City of Calgary and have to meet City safety standards. Check the identity of both the driver and their vehicle before you get in. Find more tips on passenger safety here.

Find out more at calgary.ca/stampede.

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