Strong Alberta

By Chantelle de Jonge Chestermere-Strathmore MLA

A strong Calgary Stampede is a sign of a strong Alberta, and early numbers suggest this year’s Stampede could be the biggest and the best ever.

Over the first couple days, the Stampede saw 340,000 visitors – nearly an all-time attendance record. These booming numbers show that not only is the Stampede strong and dynamic, but so is our economy.

Whether the Stampede sets a new attendance record or not, the success of this year’s celebration is great news for all Albertans. The Stampede has an average annual economic impact of approximately $540 million to Alberta’s economy. And Stampede activities create thousands of good-paying jobs for Albertans and support businesses and industries across the province. The importance of the Stampede, not just for Albertans’ morale but for the economy, is tremendous.

The Stampede is a celebration of Alberta’s western history, culture, and traditions. Our Government MLAs were out in full force this year, attending Stampede barbecues, breakfasts, rodeos, and community events. The strength of this year’s Stampede is a testament to the strength of Alberta’s economy, which is drawing in families and businesses from across the country who want to participate in our freedom and prosperity. Our team is laser-focused on continuing to grow and diversify Alberta’s economy, to ensure Alberta remains the best place in the world to live, work, and play for generations to come.

Alberta is back and the success of the 2024 Stampede is sure to translate to communities across the province, as they prepare to host their own summer and fall events, such as the upcoming Strathmore Stampede on the first weekend of August.

Until then, we look forward to the Stampede finishing strong and hopefully setting a new attendance record. More than anything, however, we urge everyone attending Stampede to be safe as they enjoy all the fun Stampede has to offer. We also thank the more than 2,500 passionate volunteers who support the Stampede year-round. Volunteers are the lifeblood of these kinds of events, and without them, events like the Stampede would not be possible.

We are all so lucky to call ourselves Albertan, and the Stampede is a reminder of all that makes our province great and all that binds us as a people.

As always, please feel free to reach out to my office with your feedback and questions at  Chestermere.Strathmore@assembly.ab.ca

(Chantelle de Jonge is the MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore and the Parliamentary Secretary for Affordability and Utilities)