Calgary Stampede to kick off with parade in first full event since start of pandemic

CALGARY — The Calgary Stampede is back and set to kick off today with its trademark parade, in it first full event since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

The Stampede was cancelled in 2020 — the first time in its 100-plus-year history.

A scaled down event was held last year with many pandemic precautions in place, including COVID-19 rapid testing at its main tents.

There was also a shortened parade but without spectators.

That’s changing this year, as an array of parade floats, bands, horses and dignitaries are scheduled to welcome back crowds.

Hollywood actor Kevin Costner, who has starred in movies shot in the Calgary area, was chosen as this year’s parade marshal.

The Stampede, which also includes a midway, a fair and a nightly rodeo, runs through July 17.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 8, 2022.

The Canadian Press