Over a million people have descended upon Calgary for the city’s most famous and beloved event. First held in 1912, the Calgary Stampede is a ten day event filled with competitions, concerts, parades and exhibitions. This article, from a 1933 issue of The Beaver, provides a glimpse into the sights and sounds of an early Stampede. Read about the Wild Cow Milking Contest, Calf Roping, the popular Chuck Wagon Race and the other events that kept crowds shouting, laughing and on their feet.

Below that is a collection of photos highlighting Stampede events over the years. Click on the first image to start the slideshow. All images courtesy of Peel's Prairie Provinces, a digital initiative of the University of Alberta Libraries.

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