Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The 2025 Calgary Stampede Parade kicked off “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” with a spectacular celebration of culture, tradition, and community pride. Thousands of spectators filled the downtown streets, cheering on an eclectic mix of marching bands, cultural organizations, horse-drawn carriages, and colour parties that reflected Calgary’s rich and evolving identity.
From the thunder of hooves to the rhythm of international music, the parade delivered both heritage and modern flair. The Children’s Cottage Society earned the honour of Best Horse Drawn Conveyance, while Shelley V Percherons took home the award for Best Heavy Horse (2 & 4 Hitch).
One of the most applauded entries was the India-themed Barat (Marathi), which won the coveted C977 Fan Favourite Award, mesmerizing the audience with its vibrant display of South Asian wedding traditions. Right behind, the Cultural Multicultural Association (CMA) proudly secured second place, recognized for its engaging performance and cultural impact in the parade.
The Dashmesh Cultural Centre received accolades for Best Community / Social Impact, while Ismaili Muslims: Canada Strength in Diversity was awarded Best Creative / Innovative Entry, highlighting Canada’s multicultural strength.
The Celebrity Judges’ Choice Award was presented to the internationally celebrated Taipei First Girls’ High School Marching Band, which wowed the crowd with its synchronized precision and musical excellence.
Honouring legacy and Western heritage, СРКС won Best Western / Legacy, and Fiesta Filipino: F2X The Legacy captured Best Parade Spirit. This year’s highest recognition, Best Overall Parade Entry, went to Races del Peru Non-Profit Cultural Association, a colourful and passionate tribute to Peruvian culture.
Additional winners included:
• Best Mounted Group Under 12: The Wildies! Legends of the West
• Best Business / Entrepreneur: Cai Tai Chi Life by Cai Tai Chi & Martial Arts Foundation
• Best Avenue Engagement: Deployment to Employment (Coding for Veterans)
• Best Horse Drawn Group: Alberta Friesen Horse Association
• Best Mounted Colour Party: Calgary Regional Appaloosa Club
• Best Formal Colour Party: Lord Strathcona’s Horse
• Best Commercial Colour Party: Steel’s Scouts Commemorative Troops
The Calgary Stampede Parade continues to serve as a vibrant stage for communities to share their heritage and traditions while reflecting the city’s growing cultural mosaic.
With colour, music, and unity on full display, the 2025 Stampede Parade proved once again why Calgary remains a symbol of both Western legacy and modern multiculturalism.
