Parade kicks off Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth
Posted Jul 8, 2016 6:46 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Are your cowboy hats on, and boots shined up?
Friday morning marks the official start of the Calgary Stampede.
Marching bands, floats, horses and Marshals Jann Arden and Paul Brandt are taking over the downtown as the parade kicks-off at 9 a.m.
A lot of tired, but excited faces lined up early to stake their claim on a good viewing spot.
Jim was up at 4 a.m., but doesn’t mind setting up chairs for his family.
“This is actually my 64th birthday, and this is where I’m starting my celebrations,” he said.
Arthur spent all night along the route.
“I get here after free parking starts at 6 p.m. until the end of the parade,” he said.
The Stampede is including a special entry this year to recognize the collective efforts of first responders who worked in Fort McMurray and the Regional Municipality of Wood-Buffalo to battle the wildfires.
Parade-goers should also keep an eye out for some members of Calgary’s top sports teams in the parade.
Calgary Sports and Entertainment says members of all its teams will participate in the festivities.
From the Flames, you’ll spot President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke, along with players Matt Stajan and Micheal Ferland.
The Hitmen’s General Manager Mike Moore will be there, as will Roughnecks players Mike Carnegie and Curtis Dickson.
Fittingly, the Stampeders will be represented by the team’s touchdown horse Quick Six, and her rider Chelsea Drake.
The Calgary Inferno will be represented by Meaghan Mikkelson and Rebecca Johnston.
Follow @660NEWS and @jonmuma on Twitter for live updates from the parade route.
