Stampede summer back with all the fixins

By Medicine Hat News on May 17, 2022.

Parade goers have reason to celebrate this summer with the return of the Stampede Parade after a two-year pandemic break. Canada Day festivities will all return in full swing.--NEWS FILE PHOTO

The Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede is gearing up for its return this summer.

The Stampede announced last week it will be bringing back its Canada Day festivities in full force, while the Stampede Parade is set to return after a two-year hiatus.

Canada Day activities are set to begin at noon with the opening ceremony in Pioneer Village.

A hot dog lunch – free for kids 12 and under – will help kick things off, followed by a cake decorating challenge at 1:30 p.m.

Five local bands will perform in the infield between 2-11 p.m., while kids activities will take place 2-4 p.m., including pony hops, Safety City, an archery demo and more.

The Free Stage, running from 2-6:30 p.m., will feature belly dancers, line dancers, Highland dancers and more. Local organizations wishing to participate on the Free Stage or run a stand-alone booth can contact the Stampede office at 403-527-1234 for more information.

The Canada Day celebration will conclude with a fireworks display at 11 p.m.

This year’s parade, slated for the morning of July 28, will feature the themes, “We Ride Again” and “A Tribute to our Frontline Workers.” Longtime Medicine Hat Tigers broadcaster Bob Ridley will serve as the honorary parade marshal.

The deadline for entries is July 22. Contact the Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede at 403-5267-1234 or admin@mhstampede.com for more information.