Making Stampede 2023 the Safest and Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth
Calgary – On July 7, Stampede Park will be filled with people as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth kicks off for another year.
“Our belief is that wearing a cowboy hat is a sign of respect – and wearing one at the Stampede should be a reminder to treat others with kindness, dignity and respect,” said Kerrie Blizard, Director of Public Safety and Environment at the Calgary Stampede. “The Stampede is where the greatest heroes and horses face off at the world’s greatest rodeo. It’s where Canada’s greatest music hits the greatest stages. But the greatest part is the guests who hat up and head down every year as the greatest versions of themselves.”
The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth is not put on in isolation. The Calgary Stampede works closely with the Calgary Emergency Management Agency, City of Calgary, Calgary Police Service, Calgary Fire Department, Calgary Transit, and Alberta Health Services to make Stampede Park a safe and welcoming place for people from across the city and around the world.
“The spirit of the Calgary Stampede is part of our cultural fabric,” said Sue Henry, Chief of Emergency Operations & 911 for The City of Calgary. “We want residents and visitors to safely enjoy all that Stampede has to offer, and have done extensive planning with our partners behind the scenes to make it the safest event possible.”
Whether waking up early to be the first in line for flapjacks or going home after a late night of line dancing at Nashville North, the CTrain will be running around the clock. 24 hour CTrain service starts the evening of July 6, and ends the morning of July 17.
“We want everyone to have an enjoyable Stampede and we recognize the role of Calgary Transit in providing safe access to Stampede activities,” says Aaron Coon, Chief of the City of Calgary’s Public Vehicle Standards Division. “To support this, we’ve hired security guards, enhanced our partnership with the Calgary Police Service, and added peace officer patrols throughout the system.”
Officers will be stationed at the Erlton and Victoria Park Stampede stations and at the level crossing at 17 Avenue. If someone sees something that causes concern, they can alert Calgary Transit via the Transit Watch program.
“The Transit Watch program allows customers to discreetly report concerns to us by text at 74100,” says Coon. “You can also call for assistance using the help phones/buttons that are placed in strategic locations at CTrain stations, Max Purple stations and on platforms. However, if they feel that their safety is immediately threatened, customers are reminded to always call 911.”
In addition to Calgary Transit, vehicle for hire services such as taxi, limousine, and Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) will allow visitors to seamlessly and safely travel to and from events. Within Calgary’s downtown core, businesses have established late night ride home stands and designated taxis stands. Drop-off/pick-up zones for TNCs and designated taxi stands will be available near Stampede Park to safely facilitate the movement of large crowds to and from venues and events.
The weather in Calgary can change quickly so guests are encouraged to be prepared when they step onto Stampede Park. If an item such as sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, raincoat, or a water bottle is forgotten, they are all available for purchase to ensure a comfortable Stampede experience.
“We encourage everyone attending outdoor events to prioritize their health and protect themselves from excessive heat,” says Dr. David Klassen, Medical Officer of Health, Alberta Health Services. “We recommend people stay hydrated; wear lightweight and breathable clothing including a hat and sunglasses; use sunscreen; rest often in shady areas; and take chances to cool off such as by using a spray bottle, wet bandanna, or fan and taking breaks in cool indoor spaces.”
During the course of the July celebration, Stampede Park becomes the third-largest city in Alberta and, with the support of the Calgary Police Service, becomes its own police district. Members of the Calgary Police Service will be walking around Stampede Park and stationed there from Sneak-A-Peek on July 6 to the final Sunday of Stampede on July 16.
“The Calgary Police Service is ready for the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede. We are ready to do our part to keep Stampede safe and fun for everyone,” said Superintendent Joe Brar. “We have worked closely with our partners at the City of Calgary, the Calgary Stampede, and other organizations to develop a policing plan. Bringing in police officers from across the city, we will have a highly visible presence both along the parade route and at Stampede Park. The grounds operate as a ninth police district with its own commander, radio channel, patrol officers and office. This allows us to coordinate policing throughout the park and ensure all parts of the park are well-patrolled. Protecting all Calgarians and visitors is a responsibility we take very seriously. We are confident that we are ready for Stampede 2023.”
This week, help make The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, the safest too. Find more information about the Calgary Stampede here.
About the Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The Calgary Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through our world-renowned Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. Exemplifying the theme We’re Greatest Together, we are a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and celebrates our western heritage, cultures and community spirit. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities.