Calgary Stampede Launches Expanded Indigenous Programming for 2023
New Elbow River Camp and Stampede Indigenous showcase aim to centre First Nations culture at the annual festival.
The Calgary Stampede has unveiled significantly expanded Indigenous programming for its 2023 edition, including a reimagined Elbow River Camp and a new Indigenous showcase that organizers say represents a meaningful shift in how the festival engages with First Nations culture.
Elbow River Camp
The centrepiece is the Elbow River Camp, a cultural gathering space designed and programmed entirely by Treaty 7 nations. Visitors can experience traditional tipi teachings, participate in craft workshops, attend storytelling circles with Elders, and sample Indigenous cuisine from a new food pavilion.
“This is not a performance for tourists. This is our space, our stories, our way,” said camp coordinator Jaden Scout, a member of the Tsuut’ina Nation. “We’re inviting people in on our terms.”
Indigenous Showcase
A new evening showcase will feature Indigenous musicians, dancers, and spoken word artists from across Canada, performing on a dedicated stage within Stampede Park. The lineup includes Blackfoot singer-songwriter Adrian Weasel Fat and Cree electronic artist DJ Kwe.
Reconciliation in Action
Stampede CEO Joel Cowley acknowledged that the organization’s historical relationship with Indigenous peoples has been complicated, and said the expanded programming is part of a genuine reconciliation journey.
“We’re not where we need to be yet, but we are committed to doing the work,” Cowley said. “The Stampede belongs to everyone, and that has to include the original peoples of this land.”
Treaty 7 leadership expressed cautious optimism, noting that meaningful partnership — not tokenism — is what matters.
The 2023 Stampede runs July 7–16. Indigenous programming is included with general admission.