Calgary Stampede: The Untold Stories & Indigenous Roots with Marsha Gordon | EP. 7

When you hear “Calgary Stampede,” you probably start thinking of white cowboy hats, chuckwagon races, rodeos and ten days of non-stop celebration. And, well you’d be right! But what if I told you there is a cultural history that often goes unnoticed by the average tourist looking to have a good time?

In Episode 07 of the Rudderless Travel Podcast, we hung out with Marsha Gordon from the SAM Centre to dive into the history and story behind the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” We cover everything from the unique partnership with the Treaty 7 First Nations that dates back to 1912, to the hidden secrets of the stampede grounds.

Unlocking the Secret History of the Stampede

It’s called the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” for a reason. Between the heart-pounding chuckwagon races, the world-class rodeo events, the nightly Grandstand spectacle, and the endless miles of midway treats, it is a sensory overload in the best way possible. But Marsha Gordon explains that the Stampede’s origins were rooted in something much deeper.

When Guy Weadick founded the event in 1912, he didn’t just want a show; he wanted a true celebration of the West. He insisted that the Treaty 7 First Nations participate—not just as a sideshow, but as partners. Given the time, this was a bold move, as government policies actively tried to suppress Indigenous culture. The Stampede became one of the few places where traditions, languages, and regalia could be shared openly and proudly.

As it should.

The Elbow River Camp: A Living History

One of the major highlights we discuss in the episode is the Elbow River Camp. There are 26 tipis set up in the camp, representing the five nations of Treaty 7: Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Tsuut’ina and Stoney Nakoda.
(For more info on the specific nations, check out the official Elbow River Camp page.)
Marsha mentioned that the families inside these tipis are the descendants of the original participants who made that handshake deal with Guy Weadick over 100 years ago, which is really quite awesome if you think about it!

What to Do at the Camp:

• Talk to the Tipi Owners: You are welcome to enter the tipis when the flaps are open. Here you can ask questions, listen to stories, and view the incredible beadwork and artifacts.
• Watch the Powwows: This is one of my favourite things to do back home in Toronto. The dancing and drumming competitions here are world-class, and the energy is incredible.
• Eat the Bannock: This is one of my absolute favourite things to eat—I love this stuff. I once ate it with Maple Syrup Butter out in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec, and it changed my life. Seriously, do not leave the Stampede without trying traditional bannock (fry bread) with jam. It’s iconic.

Experience Calgary Like an Insider

Beyond the Ten Days: Visit the SAM Centre

If you can’t make it out to Calgary during the 10-day festival in July, Marsha has good news. The newly developed SAM Centre—the place we recorded this very episode—brings the Stampede story to life year-round. Located right on the Stampede grounds, the SAM Centre is an immersive experience that captures the grit, the glory, and the history of the West. It isn’t just a museum with artifacts behind glass; it is a sensory experience where you can feel the dust and hear the thunder of the wagons.

• Pro Tip: Don’t miss the immersive digital exhibits that put you right in the center of the action.

Marsha’s Top Recommendations for Your Visit

We asked Marsha for her “must-do” list for anyone visiting Calgary for the first time. Here is how to make the most of your trip:

• Eat Local: Calgary has an exploding culinary scene. Don’t just stick to the midway corn dogs (though we love them).
• Walk the River: The Stampede grounds are located near the Elbow River. Take a break from the crowds and walk the pathways—it’s the same water that has sustained the nations here for centuries.

Where to Stay in Calgary

Looking for the best hotels near Stampede Park?

Our Top Pick: We stayed at the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel. It’s centrally located and made getting to the grounds and exploring the city incredibly easy.

The biggest takeaway from our time with Marsha Gordon is that the Stampede is not static; it is an evolving partnership.

“It’s clear that the Stampede is far more than just a rodeo. It’s a vibrant expression of Western heritage, a testament to enduring community spirit, and a truly welcoming space that honors diverse traditions.”

Whether you are there for the rodeo, the bannock, or the history, the Calgary Stampede invites you to be part of that community.