A Global Celebration of Culture: The Calgary Stampede is no stranger to spectacle, the spirit of Africa was boldly on display at this year’s parade, which kicked off early morning across the city with the traditional free breakfast meals hosted by different corporates and organizations. During the parade, the Nigerian community in Alberta took centre stage with unapologetic pride, colour, and rhythm, celebrating not just their own heritage, but embracing the rich tapestry of African culture as a whole, reminding everyone why the Stampede is much more than cowboys and rodeos.

While the community led with traditional Nigerian beats and movement, one unexpected highlight captured the spirit of global unity: a spontaneous celebration of the South African hit song “Jerusalema” by Master KG. The viral anthem, which became a symbol of hope and resilience during the pandemic, saw parade-goers from all backgrounds join in clapping, dancing, and recording the moment on their phones. It was a stirring example of the Stampede’s power to connect cultures, generations, and rhythms, across borders and beats.

“We are here not only to represent Nigeria but to celebrate Africa as a whole,” said one of the participants. “When that South African beat dropped, we danced as one continent.”

With over 1,200 events hosted annually at Stampede Park and more than four million visitors crossing through its gates each year, the Stampede is not just a ten-day festival. It is a cultural and economic powerhouse, generating over $540 million for local businesses and creating over 3,500 seasonal jobs, many of them first-time opportunities for Calgary youth.

Since its humble beginnings in 1912, the Calgary Stampede has grown into a celebration of both western traditions and modern multiculturalism. The inclusion of genres like Afrobeat and Amapiano alongside cowboy boots and western floats is a testament to how Calgary continues to embrace multiculturalism with flair and warmth.

This year, the Nigerian community didn’t just show up, they continued to make history. The ‘World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo’ and show will run from July 4th till the 13th, with a spectacle of events lined up.

See https://www.calgarystampede.com/ for more detail.