What to Bring for a Comfortable and Fun Family Experience

The Calgary Stampede is a cherished tradition that brings together families to celebrate Western heritage and enjoy a wide range of activities. One of the highlights of this annual event is the grand parade, which kicks off the festivities with a vibrant display of floats, bands, and performers. To make the most of your parade day experience, it's important to come prepared. In this blog, we'll explore the essentials that families should bring to ensure a comfortable and fun time at the Calgary Stampede parade.

Arrive Early and Stake Out Your Spot

Arriving early is key to securing a great viewing spot along the parade route. Families often make this part of their tradition, arriving before dawn to claim their favorite locations. Bringing blankets and folding chairs is essential for creating a comfortable space where you can relax and enjoy the parade.

The Anderson family has been attending the parade for over 30 years and has perfected their routine. "We always get there early and set up our chairs and blankets in our favorite spot," says Helen Anderson. "It’s become a family tradition, and we love starting the day with a picnic breakfast while we wait for the parade to start."

Dress for the Occasion

Dressing up in Western attire is a fun way to immerse yourself in the Stampede spirit. Cowboy hats, boots, and themed costumes not only enhance the festive atmosphere but also make for great family photos. Coordinating outfits can add an extra layer of excitement and help your family stand out in the crowd.

At Costume-Shop.com, we offer a wide range of costumes and accessories to help your family look the part. From classic cowboy gear to creative themed outfits, our selection ensures that everyone can join in the fun and fully embrace the Stampede spirit.

Bring Snacks and Drinks

Parade day can be long, so it’s important to bring plenty of snacks and drinks to keep everyone energized and hydrated. Pack a cooler with water, juice, and easy-to-eat snacks like fruit, granola bars, and sandwiches. Don’t forget to bring a thermos of coffee or hot chocolate for the adults to enjoy while waiting for the parade to start.

The Peterson family always packs a picnic for parade day. "We bring a cooler filled with drinks and snacks, so we don’t have to leave our spot," says John Peterson. "It’s a great way to keep everyone happy and fed throughout the day."

Sunscreen and Hats

Protecting yourself and your family from the sun is crucial during parade day. Bring plenty of sunscreen and make sure to reapply it throughout the day. Wearing wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses can also help protect against the sun’s rays and keep everyone comfortable.

The Wilson family never forgets their sunscreen and hats. "We’ve learned from experience that the sun can be intense," says Emily Wilson. "We always make sure to apply sunscreen and wear our hats to stay protected."

Comfortable Footwear

With all the walking and standing involved, comfortable footwear is a must. Choose sturdy shoes that provide good support and are suitable for the terrain. Avoid wearing new shoes that might cause blisters, and opt for well-worn, comfortable options instead.

The Martinez family emphasizes the importance of comfortable footwear. "We always wear our most comfortable shoes on parade day," says Carlos Martinez. "It makes a big difference when you’re on your feet for hours."

Entertainment for Kids

Keeping young children entertained while waiting for the parade to start can be a challenge. Bring along some small toys, coloring books, or electronic devices to keep them occupied. Consider packing a portable charger to ensure your devices stay powered throughout the day.

The Hernandez family brings a bag of entertainment for their kids. "We pack coloring books, small toys, and a tablet with movies to keep the kids entertained," says Maria Hernandez. "It helps pass the time and keeps them happy while we wait."

Cameras and Binoculars

Capture the memories of your parade day experience by bringing a camera or smartphone to take photos and videos. Binoculars can also enhance the experience, allowing you to get a closer view of the floats and performers from a distance.

The Thompson family always brings their camera and binoculars. "We love taking photos and videos of the parade," says Mark Thompson. "The binoculars are great for getting a closer look at the floats and performers."

Flags and Decorations

Show your Stampede spirit by bringing flags and decorations to wave during the parade. This adds to the festive atmosphere and makes your family’s spot even more special. Consider making homemade signs or banners to hold up as the floats pass by.

The Anderson family brings flags and decorations every year. "We wave our flags and cheer as the floats go by," says Helen Anderson. "It’s a fun way to get into the spirit and show our enthusiasm."

First Aid Kit

Having a basic first aid kit on hand is always a good idea, especially when attending a large event like the Calgary Stampede parade. Pack essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary medications to ensure you’re prepared for minor injuries or ailments.

The Peterson family keeps a small first aid kit in their bag. "It’s better to be safe than sorry," says John Peterson. "We’ve had to use it a few times, and it’s always good to have on hand."

Reusable Bags and Trash Bags

Help keep the parade route clean by bringing reusable bags and trash bags. Use the reusable bags to carry your belongings and the trash bags to collect any litter. This not only helps the environment but also ensures that your family’s spot stays tidy throughout the day.

The Wilson family brings reusable bags and trash bags every year. "We always clean up our area before we leave," says Emily Wilson. "It’s important to respect the space and keep it clean for everyone."

Conclusion

The Calgary Stampede parade is a highlight of the festival and a cherished tradition for many families. By coming prepared with the essentials, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone. From arriving early and dressing up to bringing snacks, sunscreen, and entertainment, these tips will help you make the most of your parade day and create lasting memories.

At Costume-Shop.com, we’re proud to help families embrace the Stampede spirit with our range of costumes and accessories. So, gather your loved ones, pack your essentials, and get ready for a fun and unforgettable day at the Calgary Stampede parade.