Following the conclusion of the Calgary Stampede, the grounds were left devoid of cowboy hats, replaced instead by work boots as crews from North American Midway Entertainment prepared to transport rides to Edmonton for K-Days, which commenced four days later. The Stampede reported a total attendance of 1,411,954 over the course of ten days, a noteworthy figure that contrasts with Fort Worth’s own cowboy culture, especially as the individual overseeing Calgary’s Stampede previously managed the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Both rodeo events experienced a decline in attendance in 2026 for different reasons. In Calgary, new regulations focusing on the film industry emerged, including a film credit incentivizing productions to shoot in rural areas, as well as the launch of a regulated online casino market that began operating that same Monday. Meanwhile, Fort Worth has implemented its own regulations aimed at enhancing its screen industry.
Calgary’s Attendance Decline
Calgary’s attendance was approximately 60,000 fewer than 2025’s figure of 1,470,288, which itself fell short of the record set in 2024. This recent dip in attendance could suggest a trend, although this year’s remarkable weather likely played a role in the decrease. The free portions of the event drew record crowds, with 315,000 people attending the opening-day parade—the largest turnout in its history. The Stampede’s outreach efforts included free events throughout the week, allowing more residents to engage with the festivities.
Joel Cowley, the Stampede’s CEO, emphasized that attendance numbers alone do not define success. In mid-week surveys, 86 percent of attendees expressed intentions to return, a positive indicator amidst concerns about financial affordability impacting Canadians this year. Notably, the majority of attendees hailed from the Calgary area, with only a small percentage traveling from the United States.
Weather Impact on Fort Worth’s Stock Show
In contrast, Fort Worth’s Stock Show saw a significant drop in attendance, attracting 1,012,925 visitors this year, a decrease of 250,995 from the previous year. The decline was largely attributed to severe weather that hit during what is typically one of the busiest weekends of the show. The freezing temperatures and sleet that lasted over 36 hours significantly impacted visitor turnout.
Despite the weather challenges, the Stock Show continued to innovate, reopening the historic Will Rogers Coliseum after a substantial renovation and experimenting with new event formats. Marketing efforts focused on engaging audiences through short-form video content, showcasing the excitement of the festivities even amid the weather setbacks.
Alberta’s Film Incentives
Alberta has enhanced its film industry through a tax credit that incentivizes productions to shoot in rural areas. This initiative, which offers a 22 or 30 percent refundable credit based on eligible expenses, has attracted numerous productions ranging from period dramas to contemporary series. Since its inception in 2020, the program has contributed to over C$1.6 billion in spending across more than 380 productions.
In June, the province expanded its credit criteria to include unscripted television and game shows, earmarking over C$65 million to support this sector. The changes reflect an effort to diversify entertainment offerings and stimulate economic growth in Alberta.
New Regulations for Online Casinos
The Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) has introduced stringent advertising standards for registered online gaming operators, restricting promotional bonuses and incentives in public advertising. This new market opened concurrently with the Stampede’s conclusion, paralleling regulations in Ontario, which also limits promotional strategies for online gambling.
The regulations permit operators to communicate bonuses directly to players who have opted in, ensuring transparency and compliance with provincial standards. This careful approach shapes the landscape of online gaming promotions across Canada.
Texas Film Incentives
Texas has also been proactive in attracting film and television productions, establishing a $300 million incentive fund every two years for projects that meet specific financial criteria. This initiative mirrors Alberta’s efforts, rewarding productions that make significant investments in the state, particularly in rural areas.
Notably, the collaboration between Texas and the film industry has resulted in substantial job creation and local hiring, although some crew members have expressed desires for increased opportunities for local workers in major productions.
Upcoming Events in Alberta
Looking ahead, Calgary is set to host the Grey Cup, the Canadian football championship, at McMahon Stadium on November 15. The Stock Show is scheduled to return on January 15, while the Stampede will resume in July. With a significant portion of attendees indicating they are newcomers to the Stampede, the economic impact of out-of-town visitors remains a crucial factor for both events.
