Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Calgary is gearing up for a major sporting celebration as the city prepares to host the 113th Grey Cup on November 15. The championship showdown between the Edmonton Elks and Montreal Alouettes will be accompanied by several days of public events, entertainment and family-oriented activities.
The Alberta government has committed $4 million towards the 2026 Grey Cup and its accompanying festival. Scheduled from November 11 to 14 at Stampede Park, the festival will feature a range of free and affordable attractions, including a street festival, family activities, rodeo performances and a summit focused on girls in sport.
The event is also expected to provide a boost to Calgary’s economy. More than 350,000 visitors are anticipated to shop, eat and stay in the city during the celebrations. Organisers and the provincial government project that the Grey Cup and festival could generate over $50 million in economic activity while supporting approximately 300 jobs.
Premier Danielle Smith said Calgary was prepared to welcome football supporters from across the country. Expressing support for the Edmonton Elks, she described the team as Alberta’s representative and said she hoped to see them lift the trophy on home soil. She also highlighted the city’s ability to deliver a week of entertainment and sporting excitement.
Tourism and Sport Minister Andrew Boitchenko said hosting the championship reflected Alberta’s experience in organising major sporting events. He encouraged visitors to take part in the festival programme and explore the province during their stay.
Karen Dommett, executive director of the 2026 Grey Cup, said the celebrations would extend beyond the football match, offering an opportunity for residents and visitors to come together and enjoy activities across Calgary.
The championship is being organised in partnership with Tourism Calgary, with support from the provincial government. Alisha Reynolds, president and CEO of Tourism Calgary, said hosting the event would help highlight local businesses and hospitality services while bringing wider benefits to the community.
McMahon Stadium will stage the Grey Cup for the sixth time when the teams meet on November 15. The occasion is expected to draw football fans from different parts of Canada for one of the country’s biggest annual sporting events.
