This Iconic Alberta Rodeo Is A Cowboy Or Cowgirl’s Dream Come True

By Britanny Burr on June 17, 2024.

The Airdrie Pro-Rodeo, one of the top rodeos in Canada, promises an unforgettable experience filled with heart-pounding action, family-friendly fun, and a taste of true cowboy culture.

It’s no secret that Albertans love a good old-fashioned rodeo. However, the Calgary Stampede tends to take all of the focus when July rolls around. Well, what if we told you that another iconic Alberta rodeo deserves a big old spot on your calendar this summer?

The Airdrie Pro Rodeo isn’t just any rodeo. This event attracts some of the best professional athletes from across North America. These cowboys and cowgirls are the real deal, competing in various exhilarating events such as bull riding, saddle bronc riding, bareback riding, tie-down roping, team roping, steer riding, steer wrestling, and Ladies barrel racing. Watching these pros in action is a jaw-dropping display of skill, courage, and raw athleticism. Whether it’s the thrill of a cowboy trying to stay on a bronco or the sheer speed and agility of barrel racers, it’s action-packed, and we promise you’ll be on the edge of your seat the entire time. This five-day event combines tradition, excitement, and community spirit that will keep you energized and entertained from start to finish.

Celebrate Canada Day The Alberta Way

What better way to celebrate Canada Day than by immersing yourself in a tradition deeply rooted in the country’s Western heritage? The Airdrie Pro Rodeo embodies the spirit of the Wild West, showcasing the skills and lifestyles that have shaped Alberta and Canada as a whole. The rodeo showcases Alberta's deep history, with roots dating back to 1967. It’s one of Canada's oldest and most respected rodeos and is a testament to its importance in the community and its role in preserving Western heritage.

The rodeo grounds offer a gorgeous backdrop of Alberta’s rolling plains and provide the perfect setting for the event. Alberta’s vast open skies and beautiful landscapes make every moment feel like a scene from a classic Western movie.

Who doesn’t love a good parade? The Airdrie Canada Day Parade is held on the morning of July 1st. It’s the perfect way to start your Canada Day Celebrations.

If you’re wondering if this event is good for the whole family, it sure is! The Airdrie Pro-Rodeo is not only for rodeo enthusiasts. It's a family affair. There are plenty of activities for kids, including junior rodeo events, rodeo clowns who are comedians in their own right, mutton busting where young kids get to ride sheep, calf scramble, wild pony races, and other interactive events that make it a hit for all ages. The entertainment is endless, and every year, the royalty titles Miss Pro Rodeo and Miss Airdrie Rodeo will be crowned and introduced at the rodeo.

Live Music and Entertainment

The fun doesn’t stop when the rodeo events end. The Airdrie Pro Rodeo features live music performances from local and national artists, including Aridie’s own Brandon Lorenzo, “2023’s Male Vocalist of the Year and Male Entertainer of the Year at the North American Country Music Association Award in Nashville, TN.”  A good ol’ Cabaret creates a festive atmosphere that keeps the party going well into the night. Kick up your heels and two-step under the stars. It’s sheer fun you won’t want to miss. According to the organizers, the entertainment will start as soon as the last bull bucks!

No Canada Day is complete without a spectacular fireworks display. The rodeo caps off the festivities with a stunning show that lights up the night sky.

Delicious Eats

Bring your appetite because the rodeo has a massive array of mouth-watering food options. From classic BBQ to gourmet treats, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Plus, local vendors set up shop, offering unique crafts and western wear, perfect for picking up a souvenir or two. Just like any festival or event in Alberta, you better come prepared to eat your weight in delicious food and shop locally-made goods.

Dust off your cowboy hat, pull on those boots and make your way to the Airdrie Pro Rodeo this Canada Day long weekend. It promises excitement, fun, and a whole lot of heart – a true celebration of Canadian spirit and Western culture. You will be fine-tuned just in time to kick off the Calgary Stampede. See ya there, partner!

Directions & Additional Info

The rodeo is located north of Calgary and west of Airdrie. Head north on the QE2 to Airdrie, then west on highway #576(Veterans Blvd for 10 km. You will see rodeo signage on the south side of the highway. On-site amenities include free camping with basic campsites, plenty of free parking on the grounds, and a free shuttle service. Head to the website or socials for a detailed description of all rodeo events and ticket information.

Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.