The thundering hooves, high-octane action and adrenaline-filled atmosphere of the Ponoka Stampede that draws in the top rodeo athletes from around the world and fills the stands with roaring fans, is back with the 86th annual installment.
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, as well as ladies ranch bronc riding.
New food concession locations and offerings will complement all there is to see and do on the grounds, from the midway with it’s games and rides, to the live entertainment and new and improved beer gardens, the “Big Top Tent Dance Hall.”
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.
“We want people to come early and stay late,” Cline said in a recent interview.
The Ponoka Stampede kicks off June 27 and will run until July 3.
Take in the pro rodeo performances each day during Canada’s largest seven-day pro rodeo, as well as six nights of World Professional Chuckwagon Association chuckwagon races.
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.
Stay tuned from now until the start of the Ponoka Stampede for all you need to know about concerts, rodeo action, entertainment and attractions. Stories will be posted every day from now until the action kicks off on June 27. Check out our page on Ponoka News for all things Ponoka Stampede, now and during Stampede Week for daily coverage.