2026 Calgary Stampede records third-highest attendance

The 2026 Stampede’s 1,411,352 visitors made it the third-highest attendance in history, following record crowds of 1,477,953 in 2024 and 1,470,288 in 2025.

The event welcomed several high-profile political leaders, including Prime Minister Mark Carney, who toured the midway, attended the Rangeland Derby, flipped pancakes, and promoted national unity during his visit. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and members of his team also took part in Stampede events.

Stampede CEO Joel Cowley said the strong turnout was especially encouraging despite ongoing affordability and economic challenges. Midway through the festival, surveys showed 91 per cent of visitors said the experience met or exceeded expectations, 86 per cent planned to return, and 94 per cent would recommend the Stampede to others.

About 70 per cent of visitors came from the Calgary area, while the remaining attendees travelled from elsewhere in Alberta, across Canada, and internationally. Nearly one in four visitors attended the Stampede for the first time.

Cowley credited initiatives such as four days of free admission and community pancake breakfasts with helping make the event more affordable and accessible.

Meanwhile, a chuckwagon horse injured during Saturday's races did not suffer any fractures and remains under veterinary care.