Calgary Stampede attendance falls short of record

Overcrowding concerns, stabbings and an animal death among the challenges at this year's Stampede. Jordan Kanygin reports.

The Calgary Stampede’s all-time attendance record, set in 2024, still stands.

According to data from officials on Monday, 121,704 people visited Stampede Park on Sunday, bringing the total attendance number for 2025 to 1,470,288.

That’s 7,665 fewer than last year.

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The 2025 edition of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth was marred by concerns over public safety and overcrowding after a violent altercation following a live performance on the Coke Stage.

Three people were stabbed in the attack on July 9 and police are still looking for suspects.

On Sunday, Calgary Stampede CEO Joel Cowley addressed the issue, saying that his team will better evaluate what acts will perform at the venue.

“We know these high demand artists, those that draw a younger crowd, tend to be a little less ruly than, say, a classic rock band that goes there, so all those things will be evaluated.”

He added the Calgary Police Service and Calgary Fire Department would be included in those discussions.

Horse death on Saturday

Rodeo action at the Calgary Stampede was not without tragedy after a chuckwagon horse was injured during the eighth heat of the Rangeland Derby on Saturday.

The animal, with Chad Fike’s team, needed to be euthanized after it broke its left front leg.

Cowley said the action was the “most humane” thing to do, but animal rights activists said the fact there was no news of the injury during the broadcast suggests the organization was not being transparent.

“They do not want the public to know that animals die regularly,” said Alexandra Pester, staff lawyer with Animal Justice.

Nonetheless, Cowley said Sunday the event was success and visitors agreed.

Officials say a poll of visitors said they were happy with this year’s event and many felt they would come back again in the future.

(With files from Jordan Kanygin)