Approximately 1.2 million people are expected to gallop through the Calgary Stampede gates over the next 10 days, said spokesman Doug Fraser.
“We expect it to be one of the biggest and best shows in history,” he said.
And with Environment Canada forecasting highs of 28C for Friday, 26C for Saturday and Sunday, and 28C for Monday, the grounds will be especially smokin’ the first four days.
General admission is $14 while kids between seven and 12 and seniors pay $7 each.
Kids six and under are free.
Among this year’s new attractions are the Rock ‘n’ Roll Ice Show in the Stampede Corral, which will feature a live band, acrobats and notable figure skating and ice dancing names such as Elvis Stojko and Olympic gold medallists Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir.
“It’s a show that’s never been seen before in the world,” said Fraser.
Also new is Draft Horse Town, a display of horsepower as part of the west’s history in Saddledome Lane, the Cowboy Up obstacle course challenge happening Saturday through Monday in the Saddledome, and Ignite, a drumming and stunt show on the Bell Midway Circus.
The RCMP Musical Ride has been cancelled due to one of the horses involved coming down with a contagious infection that could have spread to the other 7,500 animals on the grounds, said Fraser.
However, a returning family favourite, the President’s Choice Superdogs show, is now in a new location — the upper level of the Big Four building where the Stampede has added 2,500 seats.
Meantime, spectators will have the chance to see “120 of the best cowboys and cowgirls in the world” compete for $2 million in prizes at rodeo events including steer wresting, bull riding and barrel racing, said Fraser.
Tickets range in price from $12 for standing room to $345 for the best seats.
Each night, the chuckwagon races will lead into the Grandstand Show, which is a world party theme and will feature Cirque du Soleil acrobats and stunt riders.
Tickets for the GMC Rangeland Derby and Grandstand Show range from $15 to $345.
“It’s spectacular, we have a phenomenal show,” said Fraser.
The midway is also looking to please with some new cuisine — including a pulled pork parfait and cheese on a stick — as well as a brand new ride called The Skater.
Musical headliners Kid Rock and Bon Jovi will play the Saddledome, while big names such as Martina McBride and Barenaked Ladies are among the performers slotted for the Coca-Cola Stage.
jenna.mcmurray@sunmedia.ca
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