Quote:
Originally Posted by Table 5
To be honest, I kind of feel a little sorry for anyone who travels across the world with the Stampede as their main destination. I mean the rodeo part is somewhat unique and interesting, but at the end of the day the whole thing takes place in a pretty crappy and dated location (yay giant dusty parking lot), and the Midway rides are of the same craptastic quality that I remember as a kid. If I paid thousand of dollars to attend that, I'd be a little let down after all the hype.
The Rockies are something that truly is world-class and I whole heartily recommend them to anyone I meet...but I don't think the Stampede can come anywhere close to the great festivals around the world. If a visitor wants the cowboy experience, I think they are better off heading into the beautiful ranch country outside of the city.
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Probably been covered already but the Stampede is so much more than the actual grounds. The fair and the rodeo. The whole city gets behind it. It's part of the reason it's endured as a big event when so many other fairs are local and regional events.
Bars are packed and always have events, shows, or special menus. Banks put on breakfasts.Street performers come from all over the ccountry. Concerts flourish. Some big name, many indie. Recently over the last 15 years Stampede time in Calgary means a lot of djs and electronic acts show up. No doubt cashing in one people who are 'countried out'.
Stampede is one big city wide party. That's part of the appeal. People may not think the grounds amount to much (and I'll agree. Its one of the better fairs, but it still just a fair) but they often come back with memories of Calgary during Stampede. It's just an excuse to party and indulge. And it's done well. The city puts on a show.
Really, when you look at it, what are Mardi Gras and Oktoberfest really other than to drink, party, and be stupid while taking in some local flavor? There's no massive attraction other than the party. That's what Stampede is. Cowboy Western may be the theme. But it's not the point.