This year is the first time Stampede goers and vendors have been able to utilize the 500,000 square feet of rentable space the new building has to offer
Thousands of visitors to the 2024 Calgary Stampede have had a chance to mosey through the expansive halls of Calgary’s newly expanded BMO Centre, learning what makes the space tick.
With the Stampede cracking a Family Day record on Sunday at 201,260 attendees, total attendance so far on the grounds is over 500,000.
This is the year time Stampede-goers and vendors have had access to the 500,000 square feet of rentable space the new building has to offer.
“It represents opportunities for more vendors, a lot of those from southern Alberta, to be able to show their skills and their talents,” said Greg Newton, the Stampede’s executive vice-president of conventions and events.
With the large concourse on the ground floor and additional exhibit space, the expansion also allows far more people access to an air-conditioned space, said Newton.
Beyond what’s inside, Newton highlighted the great lawn outside, benches and built-in picnic tables that come with the venue.
“I think we’ve created a lot of variation in our products so people can still enjoy Stampede while having a break (from the heat) at certain times of the day,” he said.
Fleurs de Villes flower sculptures featured
Nineteen flower sculptures depicting various country musicians are scattered throughout the centre this year, part of an exhibition called Fleurs de Villes, which is Vancouver-based and kicked off at Stampede.
Alana Garneau, an ambassador for Fleurs de Villes, said she didn’t think about it initially, but this Stampede is one of the first “really big things” that has happened in the expanded building.
Fleurs de Villes co-founder Karen Marshall said, “For the BMO Centre to have us, you know, the opening Stampede for this building, is really special; we’re very thrilled to be here.”
She said their exhibition provides florists an opportunity to “do something beyond the bouquet.
“We are elevating the floral industry to be recognized as a true art form that it is,” said Marshall.
‘Absolutely brilliant’
Janice and Roy Waldron were perusing the concourse of the BMO Centre, taking in the flower displays before heading into a convention hall.
The couple from Yorkshire, England, came to Canada — and Calgary — for the first time ever this Stampede.
“This building (BMO Centre) is absolutely brilliant,” said Roy. When it came to Calgary as a whole, Janice said they were surprised by the height of the skyscrapers downtown — much taller than the buildings they see at home.
Standing in front of the flower sculpture depicting Dolly Parton, Janice said music brings back happy memories of her father.
“It just brings back memories for all of us,” she said.
Extra space allows for more vendors
There are 257 vendors in the BMO Market this year, an increase of 113 over 2023, possible in part due to the extra space.
Husband and wife Amit and Kristina Tripathi from Nepal are one of the many vendors inside the expanded space this year.
Their company Eslanto Inc. makes various “vintage style” accessories, including handbags, belts and purses out of upcycled materials.
“From all around the world we do 20 shows per year,” said Amit.
It’s their first Stampede and first time in Calgary, and Amit said their experience running the booth has been amazing.
“Everything is in (the) Stampede. I like the energy and atmosphere,” he said. “Stampede itself, it’s a culture, it’s a festival. So people are really celebrating.”
