Calgary Stampede parade expected to draw massive crowd

Music, laughter and hearty 'yahoos' will echo through Calgary’s downtown core Friday, as hundreds of thousands of people are set to enjoy the 112th Calgary Stampede parade.

Music, laughter and hearty "yahoos" will echo through Calgary’s downtown core Friday, as hundreds of thousands of people are set to enjoy the 112th Calgary Stampede parade.

"The tradition and pageantry of the parade Calgarians have loved for generations will meet some exciting new and refreshed entries to produce an unforgettable experience for the young, and young at heart," said Blair Barkley, chair of the Stampede Parade Committee.

Each year people aiming for the perfect spot to view the parade start lining the route around 7:45 a.m., they can view the parade prelude that includes 30 acts.

Then the main event kicks off just before 9 a.m. on Ninth Avenue S.E. at Third Street S.E. and will run for about two hours.

"This year's Calgary Stampede parade lineup is comprised of more than 100 entries including 21 floats, 11 bands and nearly 40 equine entries, including heavy horse hitches and mounted colour parties," officials said in a news release.

Actor Owen Crow Shoe is leading the parade.

In his most recent role, he is featured alongside 2022 parade marshal Kevin Costner in Horizon: An American Saga, which hit theatres on June 28.