How to Make the Most of Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is one of the most important relationship-building opportunities on Alberta’s calendar. For those in government relations, it offers a unique environment where business, political, and community leaders come together in an informal setting.
With the right approach, Stampede can be a highly productive week. Here are a few key strategies to help you make the most of it.
Plan and Prioritize Early
Stampede week fills up quickly! Between countless pancake breakfasts, corporate and political receptions, and evening events that push into the early morning, it’s easy to overcommit. Rather than trying to attend everything, identify your top priorities in advance:
Which stakeholders are most important to connect with?
Which events draw decision-makers in your sector?
Where are the best opportunities for meaningful conversation?
Figure Out Logistics Ahead of Time
The small, but practical, details can make or break your Stampede experience. Before the week begins:
Download any parking apps you may need for lots near your key venues. Don’t wait until you’re on-site and rushing to set up an account.
Review your event schedule and consider whether ridesharing may be more efficient than driving, particularly if parking is limited or if you expect to be attending multiple events back-to-back.
Plan ahead if alcohol will be part of the event. Rideshare options can simplify logistics and avoid “socially inhibiting” considerations.
A small amount of logistical planning upfront can save significant time and stress during the week.
Think in Terms of Touchpoints, Not Meetings
Stampede isn’t the place for formal, agenda-driven meetings. Cabinet Ministers and other VIPs will be in constant movement. Instead, it’s about making new connections and reinforcing relationships. Use this time to:
Reconnect with existing relationships in a fun, relaxed setting.
Make introductions that may be harder to facilitate during the regular business cycle.
Lay groundwork for follow-up conversations. A well-timed interaction at Stampede can often open the door to a more substantive discussion.
Be Prepared to Capture Connections
Events are busy, loud, and fast-moving. You will meet dozens of people every day. To stay organized:
Bring plenty of business cards to share with new contacts
Avoid relying solely on digital exchanges, which can be difficult in crowded, noisy environments.
Prepare Communications in Advance
For communications staff, preparation is key to maintaining a strong digital presence without disrupting your ability to socialize and enjoy Stampede. Where possible:
Draft social media posts in advance for key events.
Identify accounts to tag and messaging you want to highlight.
Prepare content so you can quickly copy, paste, and post in real time.
This avoids spending valuable time at events typing on your phone or searching for social media handles, and allows you to stay engaged with the people around you.
Follow Up Promptly
The value of Stampede doesn’t end when the tents come down. After the festivities, plan to:
Follow up with key contacts while conversations are still fresh.
Reinforce connections made during events.
Convert informal discussions into structured next steps where appropriate.
Timely follow-up is what turns a positive interaction into lasting outcomes.