Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Calgary Stampede Kicks Off With First Flip Pancake Breakfast

The breakfast kickoff sets the stage for national party leaders to engage voters on the Stampede’s summer barbecue circuit.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek take part in the 'First Flip' pancake breakfast in Calgary on Thursday morning, making the official start of Stampede festivities in the city.
Mayor Jyoti Gondek goes for a pancake flip height record as Premier Danielle Smith watches at the First Flip breakfast on Stephen Avenue in downtown Calgary on Thursday, July 4, 2024.

Overview

  • Premier Danielle Smith and Mayor Jyoti Gondek led Thursday’s First Flip pancake breakfast on Stephen Avenue Mall to officially launch the 10-day festival.
  • Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek has nearly 20 events planned for the first day as festival programming ramps up through next week.
  • Prime Minister Mark Carney and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre are expected to attend Stampede events as part of the political barbecue circuit.
  • Country star Shania Twain will marshal Friday’s parade, which Global Calgary will broadcast live at 8:45 a.m.
  • Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi described the Stampede as a “political petting zoo” and encouraged his caucus to visit church pancake breakfasts.