Mini festival series to lead the way into Calgary Stampede

First event set for May 5

Stampede fans can break out their boots and dust off their hats early this year.

On Wednesday, organizers announced a series of mini festivals leading up to the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.

Four communities are set to get an advanced look at Calgary’s 10-day party.

Spokesman Doug Fraser said it’s a chance to “reach into communities that may not have been involved in the past.”

Each three-hour event starts at 9 a.m. with a Caravan breakfast — complete with pancakes and sausage. More than 40 activities and demonstrations are planned, including an old-time community fair and interactive games for kids.

“We’ll offer the western hospitality and values that the Stampede is famous for,” Fraser said.

Dubbed the “Four Corners,” it will run for four Saturdays in May and early June.

The first event kicks off May 5 at the Genesis Wellness Centre in the northeast.

On May 12, the South Fish Creek Recreation Association is slated to host the second festival.

The show moves back north to Cardel Place on May 26, before wrapping up at the Westside Recreation Centre on June 2.

Spokeswoman Robyn Soper said each event will reflect the communities’ diverse culture.

“Every one of these festivals will have a different flare,” Soper said.

Organizers expect to draw more than 2,500 people to each festival.

The centennial Calgary Stampede kicks off in 71 days.

It runs July 6 to 15.