The Calgary 

Roundup

We’re Off and Running! 

June 22, 2025  

Last night’s AMAZING Grandstand Spectacular was truly an unforgettable evening.  As the rain cleared mere hours before the show , a crisp chill lingered in the air—but the energy and warmth radiating from the crowd more than made up for it.  Relay Races, kids on ponies (well, kids trying to get on ponies), Indigenous dance and bronc riding celebrated our western history.  The evening was capped off by a great drone show followed by stunning fireworks accompanying the Calgary Stampede Marching Band who closed the evening.   A heartfelt THANK YOU goes out to all the Rotary Members who braved the elements and came together to celebrate community, fellowship, and world-class performance under the open sky. 

Hungry, We Got you Covered 

Pancake breakfasts are a time-honored tradition that lies at the heart of the Calgary Stampede experience.  For generations, these early-morning gatherings have brought together locals and visitors alike to enjoy fluffy stacks of pancakes served with a side of western hospitality.  More than just a meal, Stampede breakfasts celebrate community spirit, volunteerism, and the cowboy culture that defines Calgary during this special time of year.  There are hundreds of breakfasts a year during the Stampede, host by businesses, community organizations and service organizations like Rotary. 

It's our pleasure to host your RI Convention Pancake Breakfast 

We’ve got breakfast covered—our treat!  But if you’re feeling inspired to support a great cause, consider donating to End Polio Now.  Tap machines will be on-site for your convenience.  Every contribution helps us get one step closer to a polio-free world.  Thank you for being part of the change! 


Signature Event of The Day

Got your tickets for tonight?  Make sure you are set for an unforgettable experience! 
If you are attending: 

Take a few minutes now to check the latest event details so you can enjoy a smooth, hassle-free evening. 

Today is a BUSY day for Signature Events.  If you do not have tickets yet and want to be part of the you can purchase tickets up to 5 mins before the event (unless we sell out) 

Honorary Calgarians!!! 

Close to 6,500 Rotary members received a truly special welcome to Calgary as Mayor Jyoti Gondek officially inducted them as Honorary Calgarians—a prestigious title shared by an exclusive group that includes heads of state, international dignitaries, and world-renowned changemakers.  This heartfelt gesture celebrates not just your presence, but the global impact Rotary continues to make.  And now that your honorary locals, it’s only fitting you look the part!  So, let’s take a few minutes to learn the key aspects of owning—and proudly wearing—a cowboy hat, the ultimate symbol of Calgary hospitality and Western spirit. 

  1. The Right Fit 
    Your cowboy hat should sit snug—not too tight or too loose.  It should rest about a finger’s width above your eyebrows and sit evenly across your head. 
  2. Know the Front from the Back 
    Look inside your hat—most have a bow on the sweatband.  The bow goes at the back.  The front has a slight dip or narrower brim. 
  3. Angle It Just Right 
    A slight tilt forward gives a classic, confident Western look.  Too far back and you might look like you’re napping on the trail! 
  4. Take It Off When Appropriate 
    Tip your hat or take it off: 
    • When indoors (especially in someone’s home or at the dinner table) 
    • During the national anthem or prayer 
    • When greeting someone with respect 
  1. Handle With Care 
    Always pick up your hat by the brim, not the crown.  The crown can lose shape if grabbed too often. 
  2. 6. Protect It from the Elements 
    Rain can ruin a felt hat’s shape, so avoid wearing it in wet weather unless it’s specially treated.  Store it brim-side down or on a hat stand to keep its shape. 
  3. 7. Own the Look! 
    Confidence is key.  Whether you're line dancing, two-stepping, or just enjoying the vibe—wear it proud! 

Haven’t snagged your 2025 Smithbilt Hat yet? Don’t worry — there’s still time to grab one! Head over to the White Hat Booth, just across the aisle from the Main Stage in the House of Friendship. 

We SOLD OUT on Saturday — that’s how fast they’re flying!  But good news: we’re restocking by mid-afternoon TODAY!  Come get yours and be part of the tradition.  These hats don’t last long! 

“It’s Not Snowing” 

Canadians are famous for many things—but near the top of the list is our love of talking about the weather.  Whether it's sun, snow, wind, or all three in a single day, we're always ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way.  It's practically a national sport to compare forecasts, layer up just in case, and still find a reason to smile no matter the skies.  Rain or shine, we look for the silver lining—and often find it. 

Speaking of silver linings, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to our incredible volunteers like Alan Tennent (Rotary Club of Calgary at Stampede) who braved the elements with a cheery smile and positive spirit.  Their dedication, energy, and resilience are what keep everything running smoothly—especially on challenging days like yesterday.  Whether guiding guests, lifting spirits, or going the extra mile behind the scenes, they exemplify the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” in every way.  We couldn’t do it without them, and we are so deeply thankful for all they do. 

     Ask for ILA

Last night marked your first chance to raise a glass of something truly special — a WORLD-RENOWNED beer, brewed right here in Calgary! Crafted exclusively for the 2025 Convention, this one-of-a-kind brew isn’t just about great taste — it’s a tribute to our global mission to end polio. 

Cheers to making a difference, one pint at a time!  For more details, check out Ask for ILA | Calgary 2025 HOC

Late Breaking News… 

Join Us in Thanking Our Sponsors

On behalf of the Calgary 2025 Host Organizing Committee, thank you to each of the organizations that made this convention a reality.  Their generosity plays an instrumental part in making this world-class, once-in-a-generation event a reality for our city.

We would like to also recognize these amazing partners who have been architects in building the Calgary experience 

We would also like to THANK and recognize the Rotary International Sponsors whose commitment to the convention made it a reality for our City and District.

Have a great OPENING CEREMONIES and enjoy your PANCAKES!!!