Tips for saving money during 10 days of Calgary Stampede
Calgarians spend big at the Stampede, but TD Bank has some tips that can stretch your entertainment dollar, especially if you plan on taking the kids.
According to a recent TD poll of Calgarians who plan to attend the 2011 Stampede celebration, 40 percent will spend between $150 and $500 during the 10-day celebration, while 53 percent plan to spend up to $150.
The poll found that the most common Stampede expenses are event tickets (51 percent) such as rodeo, party and concert tickets, refreshments (47 percent), family events (34 percent), other miscellaneous expenses (13 percent) and client or corporate hosting (5 percent).
TD Bank spending offers tips for people attending the 10-day event:
- Free family fun. There are many opportunities for free family entertainment during the 10 days, starting with the Stampede parade. Pick-up a program from the grounds, check the official Stampede website or watch the local entertainment listings for free shows and entertainment – both on and off the grounds.
- TD will be offering a free photo experience all week at Victoria Park train station. Bring the family down to dress up in old time costumes and receive a commemorative photo keepsake.
- TD is giving away tickets at all its Calgary branches to the TD Cup at Spruce Meadows on Saturday, July 9while supplies last. Ask for your free tickets and take the whole family for an afternoon of affordable fun.
- Visit www.TDLocal.com/Calgary for more information on these and other TD community events.
- Take the C-Train. Parking and taxis can add up if you go down to the grounds several times during the week. From July 7 to July 18 the C-train operates 24 hours a day.
- Free food! Many businesses around the City offer free Stampede breakfasts including the local Stampede Caravan volunteer committee that has been putting on traditional breakfasts for more than 85 years. Watch local listings, newspapers and community bulletins for others.
- Coupons, coupons, coupons! Many local businesses and corporations offer free coupons for grounds entry and other freebies when you purchase their products. This is a great way to get several people through the gates without paying admission. Visit the Calgary Stampede’s Value Deals website for a complete list.
- Make an entertainment budget. Decide what you want to spend on your evening out and take that amount in cash – then leave the plastic at home. But make sure you leave an emergency stash in your cowboy boots, for that taxi ride home. OR take the train!
- Think cowboy thrifty. Many local consignment and thrift stores dust off their gently used cowboy duds around Stampede. Mix retro cowboy clothes with new urban chic for a stylish Stampede ensemble.
- Pack a lunch. If you’re going to spend a day with the family taking in local sights and sounds, pack a healthy meal at home and only splurge on dessert when enjoying those once-a-year midway treats like mini doughnuts or cotton candy.
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