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During the 2026 Calgary Stampede, visitors will have several opportunities to enter the festival grounds for free or purchase a ticket at a discounted price.
As part of the Value Days program, the organizers have set aside special days for families, children, the local community, seniors, and military veterans.
These promotions will be valid only on specific dates and times. Therefore, those who want to save on admission should plan their visit in advance.
Sneak-A-Peek — the evening before the opening
On Thursday, July 2, the Calgary Stampede will open its gates for a special Sneak-A-Peek evening.
From 5:00 p.m. to midnight, a general admission ticket will cost $15.
This is an opportunity to enter Stampede Park before the official start of the main program and be among the first to see the festival venues.
The ticket includes access to:
- entertainment areas;
- Midway rides;
- games;
- festival food;
- concerts;
- exhibitions;
- shows and other entertainment.
Sneak-A-Peek is perfect for those who want to experience the festival in an evening atmosphere and avoid the biggest crowds during the first official weekend.
Parade-to-Park — Free Admission After the Parade
On Friday, July 3, following the traditional Calgary Stampede parade, visitors will be able to enter the festival grounds for free.
Free admission will be available from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Once the parade ends, you can head straight to Stampede Park and continue the festivities with rides, concerts, exhibits, and other festival entertainment.
This is one of the most convenient options for those planning to watch the parade in downtown Calgary first and then spend the rest of the day at the Stampede.
To take advantage of this offer, be sure to enter through the gates by 1:00 PM.
Tim Hortons Family Day
On Sunday, July 5, Tim Hortons Family Day will take place—a special day for families to visit the Calgary Stampede.
Admission will be free for everyone until 11:00 AM.
From 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., a free pancake breakfast will be served in the GMC Stadium courtyard. The treat will be available while supplies last.
Tickets for the breakfast will be distributed at the entrances to Stampede Park. Each visitor needs a separate ticket to receive breakfast.
At the same time, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., a free family variety show will take place at GMC Stadium.
Family Day is a great option for families with children who want to arrive in the morning, have breakfast, watch the entertainment program, and spend the day at the festival grounds.
Due to the popularity of this event, it’s a good idea to arrive early, as lines may form at the entrances and the number of free breakfasts is limited.
TC Energy Community Day
On Tuesday, July 7, the Calgary Stampede will host TC Energy Community Day.
Admission will be free for all visitors from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Seniors aged 65 and older and military veterans will be able to enter the grounds for free all day long.
They’ll also be offered free coffee and donuts at BMO Plaza until 11:00 a.m., while supplies last.
Community Day is dedicated to the local community and the people who contribute to city life. It’s a great opportunity to visit the festival on a weekday and avoid the largest crowds typical of weekends.
Seniors and veterans should bring a document that can verify their age or status, in case they are asked to show it at the entrance.
BMO Kids’ Day
On Wednesday, July 8, BMO Kids’ Day will take place—a day focused on children and family fun.
Admission will be free for all visitors until 11:00 a.m.
Children 12 and under can enter for free all day long.
From 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., a free breakfast will be served in the GMC Stadium courtyard. It will be available while supplies last.
At the same time, GMC Stadium will host a free variety show for children and parents.
BMO Kids’ Day will be one of the best days for a family visit. After the morning program, families can enjoy the Calgary Stampede’s rides, children’s areas, animal exhibits, shows, and other activities.
Special Event Schedule
July 2 — Sneak-A-Peek
- Time: 5:00 PM to midnight;
- Admission: $15;
- Format: Early evening access to the festival grounds.
July 3 — Parade-to-Park
- Free admission: 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM;
- Convenient for visitors heading to Stampede Park after the parade.
July 5 — Tim Hortons Family Day
- Free admission for everyone: until 11:00 a.m.;
- Free breakfast: from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.;
- Free family show: from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
July 7 — TC Energy Community Day
- Free admission for everyone: from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;
- Free admission for people aged 65 and older: all day;
- Free admission for military veterans: all day;
- Coffee and donuts for seniors and veterans: until 11:00 a.m., while supplies last.
July 8 — BMO Kids’ Day
- Free admission for everyone: until 11:00 a.m.;
- Free admission for children 12 and under: all day;
- Free breakfast: from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.;
- Free family show: from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
What’s Included with a Free Ticket
A free ticket grants access to Stampede Park and most general festival venues.
On-site, you’ll be able to enjoy:
- free concerts;
- cultural and entertainment performances;
- agricultural exhibits;
- animal demonstrations;
- shopping pavilions;
- themed zones;
- family activities;
- street shows;
- festival exhibits.
However, certain events and attractions may require an additional fee.
A standard admission ticket does not always include:
- Midway rides;
- games;
- the rodeo;
- the Evening Show;
- the Grandstand Show;
- special concerts;
- reserved seating;
- food and drinks.
Before visiting, it’s a good idea to check which activities are included with your ticket and which require a separate fee.
How to Prepare for Your Visit
During free admission hours, the Calgary Stampede grounds traditionally attract large crowds. To avoid long lines, it’s best to arrive early.
This is especially true for Family Day and Kids’ Day, when free breakfast and shows are offered in the morning.
Recommended:
- check your route in advance;
- use public transportation;
- arrive before the free admission period begins;
- be prepared for a bag check at the entrance;
- bring water and sunscreen;
- wear comfortable shoes;
- check the weather forecast;
- download a map or the Calgary Stampede app.
Free admission is valid only during a specific time period. If a visitor arrives after this period ends, they will need to purchase a standard ticket.
Where Will the Calgary Stampede Take Place
All Value Days events will take place at Stampede Park in Calgary.
The festival is located near downtown and is easily accessible by public transportation. During the Calgary Stampede, roads and parking lots in the area may be congested, so one of the most convenient ways to get there is by CTrain.
The festival entrances are within walking distance of the nearest stations.
Event Details
- Event: Calgary Stampede Value Days 2026
- Calgary Stampede Dates: July 3–12, 2026
- Sneak-A-Peek: July 2, 5:00 PM–12:00 AM
- Parade-to-Park: July 3, free admission from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Tim Hortons Family Day: July 5, free admission until 11:00 a.m.
- TC Energy Community Day: July 7, free admission from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- BMO Kids’ Day: July 8, free admission for everyone until 11:00 a.m.
- Location: Stampede Park
- City: Calgary, Alberta
- Format: special days with discounted or free admission
Value Days offer the chance to visit the Calgary Stampede at a minimal cost or completely free of charge. The key is to choose the right day, arrive on time, and plan your visit in advance.
