Calgary Stampede attendance declines slightly for 2nd season running

The Calgary Stampede, known as "The Greatest Outdoor Show On Earth," experienced a slight decline in attendance for the second year in a row. Organizers reported that 1,411,954 people passed through the gates over the 10-day event.

This year's attendance is down by about 60,000 visitors compared to last year's total of 1,470,288. It also falls short of the all-time record attendance of 1,477,953 set in 2024. The final numbers were released shortly after the event concluded, as crews began dismantling the grounds.

Despite the decrease in visitor numbers, the Stampede's economic impact on downtown Calgary remains substantial. Sheila Taylor, executive director of the Calgary Downtown Association, emphasized the event's crucial role in supporting local businesses.

"It brings hotel stays, restaurants, and so many other business benefits, so it’s absolutely a wonderful time for our city," Taylor stated. The operators of North American Midway Entertainment, responsible for the rides and amusements, were already packing up to move to Edmonton for the K-Days event, highlighting the seasonal nature of these large-scale attractions.

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It brings hotel stays, restaurants, and so many other business benefits, so it’s absolutely a wonderful time for our city.