Elbow River Camp – A Calgary Stampede Experience Not to Be Missed

This week, “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” returns to Calgary in the Canadian province of Alberta. Better known as the Calgary Stampede, this annual 10-day event features an opening parade, a rodeo, a festival filled with rides and indulgent treats, as well as pancake breakfasts throughout the community. But, perhaps one of the Calgary Stampede’s most intriguing events is the Elbow River Camp, formerly known as Indian Village.

This longstanding cultural and ceremonial tradition of the Calgary Stampede has been a part of the event since its inception in 1912—a noteworthy achievement given that Canada’s Indigenous people were not afforded freedom during that period.

First Nations Tribes Lead the Parade Photo: Courtesy Travel Alberta

The Birth of an Inclusive Celebration

An American trick roper and vaudeville performer, Guy Weadick held a romaticized view of the Wild West. As a result, he set out to establish the Calgary Stampede. From the start, Weadick insisted on including Indigenous peoples. In his view, the Calgary Stampede was intended to honor Alberta’s ranching heritage. The Indigenous peoples played an integral part in the region’s culture and history. Weadick believed a celebration of cowboy and ranch culture would be incomplete without their inclusion.

Accomplishing the establishment of the Indian Village, now known as Elbow River Camp, as part of the Calgary Stampede required a considerable amount of work. In 1912, the Indian Act governed the First Nations communities. This federal legislation prohibited traditional clothing and ceremonies. At that time, First Nations people could not leave the reservation without a pass from an Indian agent. Violations of the Indian Act could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Weadick gained the trust of First Nations people. Then he persuaded prominent local politicians and businessmen to lobby for a temporary exemption from the restrictions imposed by the Indian Act. Weadick advocated for the inclusion of the Treaty 7 First Nations: the Siksika Nation, Kainai Nation (Blood Tribe), Piikani Nation, Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda Nations (comprising Wesley, Bearspaw, and Chiniki). After successful lobbying, Weadick obtained temporary exemptions that permitted them to leave their reserves for the 10-day event. As a result, in the Calgary Stampede’s inaugural year, Weadick extended invitations to over 1,800 Indigenous individuals to lead the parade, set up camp on-site, and participate in the rodeo. For First Nations people, the Calgary Stampede provided an opportunity to publicly celebrate their culture and identity and to share it openly.

First Nations Tribal Dance at Calgary Stampede Photo: Courtesy Travel Alberta

Generations Celebrate Traditions at Elbow River Camp

Passed down through generations, 26 family-owned tipis set the state for Elbow River Camp. “My family has been involved in Elbow River Camp since 1975, when my grandfather first participated in the Calgary Stampede” shares 2012 First Nations Princess Amber Big Plume. “In 2015, through a transfer ceremony, he gifted his tipi to Kenneth Bit Plume, the current tipi holder at the camp.”

Crowning a First Nations Princess each year provides an additional highlight for families at Elbow River Camp. In 2012, Amber Big Plume received the crown. In her role as First Nations Princess, Amber served not only as an ambassador for the five tribes of Treaty 7, but also as an advocate for the youth and the next generation coming up. “I did not take that role lightly, it came with a lot of responsibility.”

Amber grew up helping her grandparents prepare the family regalia, beadwork, animal hides, and more. “It requires quite a lot of maintenace in order to take good care of these items to maintain their interity as they are passed down through multimple generations,” she explains. “Getting the horses ready, putting our regalia on the horses, and obviously showcasing that at the Calgary Stampede is an honor.” Amber grew up as a Fancy Shawl dancer. This energentic, vibrant style of Indigenous dance is known for its intricate footwork, graceful movements, and spinning. “Being able to showcase my style of dance to the general public was also a highlight,” says Amber.

Amber Big Plume as First Nations Princess in 2013 Photo: Courtesy Travel Alberta

The Heart of the Calgary Stampede: Elbow River Camp

The Calgary Stampede celebrates the people, the animals, the land, the traditions and the values that make up the unique spirit of the west. The “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth” attracts over one million vistitors each year. The celebration kicks off with the Calgary Stampede Parade. An awe-inspiring display of floats, majestic horses and high-energy marching bands add to the parade’s sparkle. Carnival rides, midway foods, rodeos and more create the fun-filled atmosphere of this legendary event. In the evening, musicians take to the stages to continue the entertainment.

However, at the heart of the Calgary Stampede tradition lies the Elbow River Camp. It represents a powerful tribute to the vibrant cultures of the Kainai, Piikani, Siksika, Tsuut’ina, and Stoney Nakoda First Nations of Treaty 7. With 26 tipis standing proudly on the Stampede grounds, Elbow River Camp serves as a living cultural village. This extraordinary gathering offers visitors an immersive opportunity to learn about Indigenous history, art, music, and storytelling, directly from the people who have called this land home for generations.

Elbow River Camp also highlights the enduring strength and beauty of Indigenous traditions. By attending Elbow River Camp, visitors benefit from exposure to impressive performances, remarkable arts and crafts, and delicious food. But more importantly, the acknowledgment of a broader narrative—one of reconnection, increased visibility, and the celebration of Indigenous excellence.

Learn more about the events of Elbow River Camp here: www.calgarystampede.com/stampede/attractions/elbow-river-camp

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