Calgary Stampede 2024: Marketing Guide for Your Local Business
Hey there, business trailblazers! The Calgary Stampede 2024 is just around the corner, and it’s more than just a rodeo and pancake fest – it’s a prime time to supercharge your Calgary local business. Let’s see how you can make the most of this epic event and turn those Stampede vibes into solid gains.
What’s in Store for Calgary Businesses During Stampede 2024
Get Ready for a Boom
The buzz is real. The Calgary Stampede 2024 is set to bring a massive wave of activity. Local businesses are seeing a surge in bookings like never before. Think packed venues and bustling streets – it’s the perfect storm for growth.
Tackling Venue and Staffing Hurdles
With the Stampede just around the corner, finding the right venue and enough hands on deck can be tricky. By this point, planning should have started at least six months ago to secure the best spots and resources. If you’re still facing challenges, it’s time to get creative and make the most of what’s available. The early birds have already locked in prime opportunities, but there’s still room to think outside the box and adapt to the excitement of Stampede 2024.
The Numbers Game
Visitor numbers are expected to hit around 1.4 million. This means more customers for your Calgary local business. From direct sales to a boost in sectors like catering and transport, the economic impact is huge.
Hotel Scene
While early hotel bookings saw a slight dip, expect 80% occupancy as the event nears. Local and regional visitors are fueling this trend, showing strong interest.
Marketing Your Calgary Local Business Stampede-Style
Brand It Up
Stampede Vibes: Infuse your marketing materials with western fonts and images like cowboy hats and boots to capture that Stampede spirit.
Social Contests: Engage your audience with contests on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. Use a branded hashtag to boost your visibility.
Special Deals: Offer Stampede-themed discounts. Think “Pancake Breakfasts” at your café or “Stampede Family Fun Packages” at your activity center.
Know Your Crowd
Identify Your Audience: Tailor your messages for tourists, families, or locals looking for fun.
Local Collabs: Team up with other businesses for joint promotions. It’s all about community and expanding reach.
Targeted Ads: Use paid ads on social media to hit specific demographics, interests, and locations.
Expand Your Reach
Sponsorships: Sponsor local events and performers in the rodeo. This is a fantastic way for local businesses to gain visibility and show support for the community.
Flyer Distribution: Print flyers and hand them out at the Stampede. With the massive attendance, it’s an easy and cost-effective way to spread the word.
Out-of-Town Ads: Create targeted ads for international visitors. The Stampede attracts people from all over the world, making it a prime time to reach a global audience.
Networking Events: Attend local events like pancake breakfasts to network. This is the most opportune time of the year for making valuable connections.
Prepping Your Business for the Calgary Stampede 2024
Extend Those Hours
Why: More foot traffic means more sales opportunities.
How: Open earlier, close later – simple tweaks for maximum impact.
Staff Up
Why: Higher customer volume needs more hands on deck.
How: Hire temporary staff or boost shifts for your current crew.
Stock Smart
Why: Running out of goods? Big no-no.
How: Keep popular items well-stocked and throw in some Stampede-themed products to catch the eye.
Content That Captivates During Stampede
Be the Stampede Guru
Blog Posts: Write about the Stampede, local history, top things to do, or Stampede recipes. Position yourself as the go-to expert.
Sizzle Reels: Create short, engaging videos showing off the excitement. Share them on your social channels.
Live Updates: Offer real-time updates and behind-the-scenes looks on social media. Build a buzz around your business.
Unmissable Events at the Calgary Stampede 2024
Rodeo Thrills and Evening Shows
The Calgary Stampede Rodeo kicks off daily at 1:30 p.m. at GMC Stadium, featuring top-tier competitors and animals. Don’t miss the adrenaline-pumping events like barrel racing, bull riding, and steer wrestling. Evening shows start at 7:45 p.m., showcasing an exciting double-header of chuckwagon races and live performances.
2024 Stampede Concert Series
The 2024 Calgary Stampede Concert Series is set to be an exciting event with a fantastic lineup that promises something for everyone. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Nashville North: The Washboard Union, Tyler Joe Miller, Owen Riegling, Brothers Osborne, Ashley McBryde, Megan Moroney, Josh Ross, James Barker Band, Brian Kelley, Jackson Dean, Lindsay Ell, Jaime Wyatt, Madeline Merlo, Timothy Wayne, Alli Walker, Kalsey Kulyk, Abby Anderson, Kelsi Mayne, Garrett Gregory, Foxx Worthee, Alex Hughes, Devin Cooper, Drew Gregory, Tristan Horncastle, Mariya Stokes.
Coca-Cola Stage: G-Eazy, Ocean Alley, Dean Lewis, Logic, Billy Talent, Jessie Murph, The Beaches, Metric, Bryson Tiller, Noah Cyrus, Orville Peck, Dillon Francis, Alison Wonderland, Benson Boone.
The Big Four Roadhouse: Five Alarm Funk, Melanie C (DJ Set), VAVO, Cash Cash, Shakey Graves, The Dead South, The Revivalists, Chromeo, Ne-Yo, Killer Mike, Dinosaur Jr., Soul Asylum, CeeLo Green, Melissa Etheridge, Jewel.
The Saddledome: AEW Dynamite & Collision, Motley Crue, Miranda Lambert, Jonas Brothers, Nickelback.
But the music doesn’t stop there. Several other festivals during the Stampede will add to the excitement:
Cowboys Music Festival: Featuring artists like Kip Moore, Brett Kissel, Cooper Alan, Tate Mcrae, Riley Green, Tucker Wetmore, Partynextdoor, Sexyy Red, Busta Rhymes, Macklemore, Flo Rida, Metro Boomin, Swae Lee, Lil John, Bailey, Zimmerman, Nate Smith, Dasha, Tyler Hubbard, Steve Aoiki, Ty Dollar $ign, Schoolboy Q, & More.
Badlands Music Festival: With performances by Rezz, Dr. Fresch, Chris Lake, Elderbrook, Slander, Chase and Status, Swedish House Mafia, DIPLO, John Summit, James Hype, TYGA, Quavo, Kaytranada, Loud Luxury, & More!
Burwood Stampede Music Festival: Showcasing DJs from Mars, Gary Levox (From Rascal Flatts), DJ Hurrican (Beastie Boys), Buckcherry, Brandi Cyrus, Tim Hicks, BC/DC, Caleb Lee Hutchinson, Julian Austin, and More!
Back Alley Summer Events Tent: Including acts like Loverboy, Kizz Daniel, Barenaked Ladies, I Mother Earth, Brokentoyz, Ja Rule, Adventure Club, Method Man & Redman, Saint Asonia, SvddenDeath, and More!
The Calgary Stampede truly transforms the city into a massive music festival, offering a variety of genres from rock and pop to EDM and country. With more than 150 artists performing across 11 venues, you’re sure to find something that hits the right note.
What These Festivals Have to Offer
Beyond the headliners, here’s what else you can expect at these festivals:
Cowboys Music Festival: Known for its energetic atmosphere, this festival features a mix of country and rock artists, perfect for fans who enjoy a lively, foot-stomping experience.
Badlands Music Festival: This event caters to EDM enthusiasts, with top DJs delivering bass-heavy performances that will keep you dancing all night.
Burwood Stampede Music Festival: An emerging festival focusing on electronic music and up-and-coming artists, offering a more intimate and unique concert experience.
Back Alley Summer Events Tent: A blend of classic rock and new talents, this festival offers a nostalgic yet fresh music experience.
These festivals provide an excellent opportunity for local businesses to attract a diverse crowd of music enthusiasts, making the Calgary Stampede a prime time for entertainment and commerce in the city.
For more details and updates on the concert lineup, visit the official Calgary Stampede website.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Calgary Stampede 2024
What are the Stampede dates?
The Calgary Stampede runs from July 5-14, 2024. Mark your calendars – it’s going to be a wild ride!
What are some must-see Stampede events?
What should I wear to the Stampede?
Should I change my business hours during the Stampede?
How can I leverage social media for Stampede marketing?
What kind of Stampede promotions can I offer?
Where can I find resources for Stampede marketing?
How can I track the success of my Stampede marketing efforts?
What if I don’t have time for Stampede marketing?
Got more questions? We’re here to help. Let’s make Calgary Stampede 2024 unforgettable for your business!
Team Up with Beanstalk for Your Stampede Strategy
The Calgary Stampede is a massive opportunity for local businesses, but standing out can be a challenge. Beanstalk is here to partner with you, helping craft targeted campaigns, amp up your brand with Stampede-themed marketing, and strengthen those community ties.
