In a little over a month the stampede atmosphere is going to return to Ponoka.
Having been postponed over the last two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 event will see the return of the full seven-day event to the community.
According to Ponoka Stampede president Jason Cline, the 2022 Ponoka Stampede will focus on the tradition of rodeo while also incorporating some new, family-focused events to attract new fans.
While all the usual rodeo events will be held, this year’s edition of the Ponoka Stampede will also feature Professional Bull Riding and the Flying Cross Jockey Club.
The Flying Cross Jockey Club is 1/8-mile youth racing which was featured in chuckwagon event in the fall.
On the grounds, a barbecue smoke pit will be set up in the Tommy Dorchester Paddock and Buster’s Pizza will be set up in another. A variety of food trucks will be on the grounds as well.
“We want people to come early and stay late,” Cline said in a recent interview.
One major change for the event will be the placement of the beer gardens.
The 80-foot by 100-foot tent will be set up on the grounds and will be the host location for a number of evening concerts throughout the week.
On Wednesday, June 29, Colter Wall will perform followed by Aaron Goodvin on Thursday and the Reklaws on Friday.
In conjunction with the Stampede, a Western Art and Gift Show will be held for four days in the arena.
“There’s something for everyone,” said Cline. “We want to focus on bringing the community together.”
As usual, the mile-long Stampede parade will take place at 10 a.m. on June 30.
The Ponoka Stampede kicks off June 27 and will run until July 3.