The Calgary Stampede, an annual event that has become a symbol of Western Canadian culture, continues to capture the spirit of Alberta since its inception over a century ago. This ten-day event in July sees the city of Calgary come alive with the essence of cowboy life, with a diverse range of participants embracing the western theme.
During the Stampede, it’s not unusual to see residents donning white cowboy hats, including Muslim women who wear them stylishly over their hijabs. Local law enforcement has also joined in, customizing their hats to match their uniforms, while farmers and community leaders showcase their best western attire.
Rev. George Diab, from Our Lady of Peace Parish, exemplifies this enthusiasm, incorporating a cowboy hat into his traditional clerical attire. "Everyone is into cowboy mode," he remarked during the festivities, highlighting the community's collective embrace of the cowboy spirit.
The Stampede, recognized as one of the largest outdoor rodeos globally, extends beyond its confines, engaging everyone from corporate professionals to immigrant families. The Ahmed-Abdelgawad family, who relocated from Dubai, embraced their new surroundings by indulging in rodeo events and festivities.
Overall, the Calgary Stampede fosters a unique sense of belonging and community, uniting a diverse population through shared experiences of Western culture and celebration.
During the Stampede, it’s not unusual to see residents donning white cowboy hats, including Muslim women who wear them stylishly over their hijabs. Local law enforcement has also joined in, customizing their hats to match their uniforms, while farmers and community leaders showcase their best western attire.
Rev. George Diab, from Our Lady of Peace Parish, exemplifies this enthusiasm, incorporating a cowboy hat into his traditional clerical attire. "Everyone is into cowboy mode," he remarked during the festivities, highlighting the community's collective embrace of the cowboy spirit.
The Stampede, recognized as one of the largest outdoor rodeos globally, extends beyond its confines, engaging everyone from corporate professionals to immigrant families. The Ahmed-Abdelgawad family, who relocated from Dubai, embraced their new surroundings by indulging in rodeo events and festivities.
Overall, the Calgary Stampede fosters a unique sense of belonging and community, uniting a diverse population through shared experiences of Western culture and celebration.