Stampeders Overview

Fast facts

League: Canadian Football League

Head Coach: Dave Dickenson

Team Mascot: Ralph the Dog

Year Opened: 1960

Capacity: 35400

City / State: Calgary / Alberta

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Battle of Alberta

Rival Team: Edmonton Eskimos

Just like their NHL counterparts, the Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Eskimos have a fierce rivalry. The rivalry between these two Alberta-based teams dates back to 1949 and is one of the most intense rivalries in the CFL. If you can only go to one Stampeders game, then make sure to be in attendance when the Eskimos come to town.

Stampeders vs Roughriders

Rival Team: Saskatchewan Roughriders

You won’t want to miss it when the Stampeders take on the Roughriders. These two CFL teams have both been members of the West Division throughout their history meaning they have met in the playoffs quite often. Those of you looking to catch a hard fought contests will struggle to find a better one than Calgary-Saskatchewan.

Stampeders vs Lions

Rival Team: BC Lions

There is no love lost when the Stampeders and Lions square off. The two teams have a long-running rivalry, and there is always a lot at stake when the two meet. Get your tickets to a Stampeders-Lions game as you wouldn’t want to miss this great matchup.

Stampeders Tailgate Guide

Atmosphere

Calgary is home to some of the best tailgating in the CFL, so come prepared to experience tailgating at its best when attending a Stampeders game. Stampeders fans have a long history of tailgating, and it shows as everywhere you look you’ll see fans grilling out and downing beers with fellow fans. The parking lot outside McMahon Stadium is a sea of red and black, so don’t hesitate to join in on the fun.

Part of what makes tailgating at McMahon Stadium so great is the fact the team not only condones it but encourages it. As a result, a strong culture of tailgating can be found here making it one of the top tailgating destinations in all of Canada.

If you’re not looking to go through the hassle of setting up your own tailgate, you can take part in the Fan Zone. The Fan Zone is home to the Tailgate Grill food truck making it the perfect place to grab a bite to eat before heading into the stadium. You can also take part in a variety of activities at the Fan Zone as well, so make sure to check it out.

Whether you want to dive head first into the Stampeders tailgating scene or just want to grab a bite to eat before the game, you’ll have an excellent time tailgating at McMahon Stadium.

Traditions

Fan Zone

Those of you looking for something to do before the game will want to stop by the Fan Zone. The Fan Zone is home to the Tailgate Grill food truck and all kinds of entertainment making it a must-see when attending a Stampeders game.

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Giant Stampeders Logo

Don’t miss the big Stampeders logo on the stadium facade. Get a picture with the logo during your visit as it makes for a nice keepsake from your trip.

Where to tailgate

Stampeders Stadium Guide

In Game

You won’t find a better place to take in a CFL game then McMahon Stadium. Calgary Stampeders games are packed full of excellent on the field action, diehard fans, and tons of pageantry and traditions making them some of the best in the league.

The Stampeders have only missed the playoffs six times since 1978, so you’ll almost always see a competitive team when taking in a game at McMahon Stadium. Calgary’s success over the years has made them one of the most well-supported teams in the league as well as one of the best teams to watch year in and year out.

The Stampeders success on the field isn’t the only reason to come out to a game. The fans here love their team and create a fantastic atmosphere that can rival that of any other CFL team. No matter what the score you’ll always find Stampeders fans backing their team creating a fun atmosphere at every game.

Finally, you’ll see lots of pageantry and tradition on display at a Stampeders game making it an unforgettable experience. Quick Six, the touchdown horse, is a can’t miss part of any Stampeders game as you’ll see him streaking down the field for every Calgary touchdown. McMahon Stadium is also home to the oldest mascot in the league and an incredible cheerleading squad, so don’t miss any of the in-game entertainment when attending a Stampeders game.

Calgarians love the Stampeders, and it shows on game days as the team, crowd, and traditions on display at McMahon Stadium are all top-notch. Start planning your trip to Calgary today to see some of the best CFL action around.

Things to check out

Wall of Fame

Make sure to check out the Stampeders Wall of Fame at McMahon Stadium. The Wall of Fame honors all of the best players and coaches in Stampeders history and is a must-see for any CFL fan.

Stamps Store

Stop by the Stamps Store to pick up a souvenir from your trip to McMahon Stadium. Here you’ll find a wide variety of Stampeders merchandise including t-shirts, jerseys, hats, and much more.

Quick Six: Touchdown Horse

After every Stampeders score, a white horse known as Quick Six rides down the field in celebration. The touchdown celebration causes the entire stadium to erupt, so get loud when you see the Stampeders score and Quick Six take the field.

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Flag Bearer

The flag bearer is one of the Stampeders newer traditions having just started in 2015, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t one of the best. Before every game, one player leads the team onto the field carrying the team flag and leading the charge. Don’t miss the flag bearer to see if your favorite player is leading the Stamps onto the field.

Ralph the Dog

Ralph the Dog is the oldest mascot in the CFL as well a can’t miss part of any Stampeders game. Ralph gets into all kinds of shenanigans throughout the game, so keep an eye out for him as you wouldn’t want to miss him.

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Outriders

The Outriders are the cheer team of the Stampeders, and they put on a fantastic show at the game. You won’t want to miss the Outriders’ routines, so stay in your seat when you see these talented performers take the field.

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Fight Songs

  1. Ye Men of Calgary

    Hit ’em again, ye men of Calgary
    Get on the ball and let’s go marching down the field
    While there’s a goal in sight, play on with all your might
    ‘Til the victory’s won, get in and fight, fight, fight!

    We’re all behind you, men of Calgary
    So when your backs are to the wall don’t ever yield
    Come on you Red and White, we need a win tonight
    Hit ’em again, ye men of Calgary!

Stampeders Bars & Restaurants

  1. Moose McGuire’s

    Moose McGuires Bar Whiskey Beer

    Neighbourhood pub offering draft brews & standard grub amid sports TVs in an unpretentious setting.

    1941 Uxbridge Dr NW, Calgary, AB T2N 2V2, Canada

    403-289-9184

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  2. Side Street Pub & Grill

    Five Star Tavern Burger Etiwanda Roadhouse Burger Old Bag of Nails Pub Burger Dixie Pig Barbecue Burger

    Proud to offer guests a wide range of options to help you relax after a hard day at work or play.

    1167 Kensington Crescent NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1X7, Canada

    403-270-3880

    Bar website

    american - $$

  3. The Gateway

    The Gateway Fish Tacos

    TRY THE BEST CATERING SERVICE IN CALGARY

    1301 16 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0L4, Canada

    403-284-8760

    Bar website

    american - $$

  4. Tipperary’s Pub

    Mamas Country Showcase Beer 33 West Ale House and Grill Beer Tequila Hoppers Bar & Grill Beer Dee Fords West Beer Sams Hideaway Beer Augis Sports Grill Beer Tipperarys Pub Beer

    Hangout offering pub grub, frequent live music & weekly karaoke along with pool & other bar games.

    2002 16 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0M1, Canada

    403-289-5566

    Bar website

    american - $$

  5. Buchanan’s

    Buchanans Steak

    Steaks, burgers, seafood & pasta are served at this eatery with a traditional chophouse vibe.

    738 3 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0G7, Canada

    403-261-4646

    Bar website

    steakhouse - $$$

  6. Blue Star Diner

    Blue Star Diner Burger

    Good food. Nothing less.

    809 1 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 0C2, Canada

    403-261-9998

    Bar website

    american - $$

  7. Holy Grill

    Holy Grill Salad

    Good food, served fast? That’s where Holy Grill comes in, and that’s what you get when you come in.

    827 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0B4, Canada

    403-261-9759

    Bar website

    american - $$

  8. CRAFT Beer Market

    CRAFT Beer Market Beer

    Looking for an inviting spot to enjoy great food and drinks? You’ve come to the right place.

    345 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0A5, Canada

    403-514-2337

    Bar website

    american - $$

  9. National on 17th

    National on 17th Blood Mary

    Long, communal tables and ample seating make it the perfect place to meet new people, and to gather with friends for a late breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

    550 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2S 0B1, Canada

    403-229-0226

    Bar website

    american - $$

  10. Ceili’s Modern Irish Pub

    Ceilis Modern Irish Pub Beer

    Whether you show up to catch a game, celebrate a birthday or host a fundraiser expect that you will be greeted with a warm smile, a cold beer and local hospitality.

    8650 112 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T3R 0R5, Canada

    587-352-0800

    Bar website

    european - $$

  11. Big T’s BBQ & Smokehouse

    Big Ts BBQ and Smokehouse BBQ

    A Smokin' experience for your tastebuds

    2138 Crowchild Trail NW, Calgary, AB T2M 4N5, Canada

    403-284-5959

    Bar website

    bbq - $$

  12. Pizza Bob’s Classic Pie

    Pizza Bobs Classic Pie Pizza

    Casual Italian standby offering specialty & custom pizzas along with pasta, salads & live music.

    2610 Kensington Rd NW, Calgary, AB T2N 4S5, Canada

    403-521-2627

    Bar website

    italian - pizza - $$

  13. Nick’s Steakhouse & Pizza

    Calgary Stampeders Nicks Steakhouse and Pizza

    Wood-walled spot for pasta, pizza & familiar steakhouse staples, with a full bar & 2 patios.

    2430 Crowchild Trail NW, Calgary, AB T2M 4N5, Canada

    403-282-9278

    Bar website

    pizza - steakhouse - $$

  14. Diner Deluxe

    Diner Deluxe Breakfast

    Cheerful diner serving up homestyle comfort dishes with a local, seasonal bent in a retro interior.

    804 Edmonton Trail NE, Calgary, AB T2E 3J6, Canada

    403-276-5499

    Bar website

    american - $$

  15. Peter’s Drive-In

    Galaxy Diner Burger Jerrys Pub & Restaurant Burger Ridgeway Drive In Burger Sandwich Peters DriveIn Burger

    Fresh, flame-broiled burgers that are never frozen and are made especially for Peters' Drive-In.

    219 16 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 1J9, Canada

    403-277-2747

    Bar website

    american - $

  16. Loco Lou’s Grill & Bar

    Loco Lou's Grill & Bar Wraps

    Unfussy hangout offering basic tavern fare such as burgers & pizza, plus pool & TVs for sports fans.

    1324 16 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0L1, Canada

    403-284-3366

    Bar website

    sportsbar - $$

  17. Phil’s Restaurant

    Phils Restaurant Pancakes

    Biggest Breakfast selection in town!

    2312 16 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0M5, Canada

    403-284-9696

    Bar website

    american - $

  18. Earl’s Kitchen + Bar

    Earl's Kitchen Bar Chicken Wings

    Sleek, upscale chain serving gourmet burgers, global comfort food, cocktails, wines & beers.

    1110 16 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0K8, Canada

    403-289-2566

    Bar website

    american - $$

  19. St. James Corner Restaurant & Irish Pub

    St James Corner Restaurant Irish Pub

    Brick-accented, 2-level Irish pub serving casual fare & draft beers amid TVs & antique decor.

    1219 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3, Canada

    403-262-1157

    Bar website

    european - $$