If you are like me and choose to blame Stampede for being over-priced or maybe unreasonable for the expensive food, here is a list of some of the insights which made my trip worthwhile and made the most out of my hard-earned money. Whether you choose to reconnect with your friends over the summer or attend a concert, be sure to check out the available options to make your trip fiscally reasonable.
1. Stampede Bucks: Did you know Stampede has its own currency? This concept gained popularity this year as Stampede authorities made “Stampede Bucks” available executively at all Safeway locations. This also served as an added bonus to having a Costo Membership. You can buy them for $39.99 and you get a $50 credit towards Stampede purchases. In particular, these vouchers can be redeemed for:
- Park admission at Park entrances for the 2011 Calgary Stampede
- Stampede Rodeo or Evening Show tickets in person at the Stampede Ticket Office. Reserved tickets from $36 to $103. Standing room tickets from $12 to $15 (sold “day of” only).
- Midway ride and game coupons at North American Midway Entertainment (N.A.M.E.) ticket booths.
- Stampede Store merchandise at Main Store on Stampede Trail (open year round), BMO Centre and Grandstand concourse.
2. 
Free Pop with 2 Stampede Tickets: With the purchase of two special Stampede tickets, at the regular price of $24, you get to choose any Coca-Cola product (414 mL beverage) absolutly free! This offer is only redeemable in the Macs store inside the Stampede grounds.
3. 
Free Admissions For Kids: If you plan to take your kids to the Stampede this year, be sure to hunt for specially-marked Coca-Cola boxes. You could save $8 for a kid’s admission by simply buying a special marked box of Diet Coke, Regular Coke or even Coke Zero at any participating retailer. Simply tear the coupon part of the package and bring it to the gate. This offer is only vaild with kids ages 7-12.
4. Save $3 on your way to Stampede: Are you a fan of Trident, Dentyne, Stride, Maynards or Cadbury chocolate? If yes to anyone of these, then all it takes for a $3 rebate is simply presenting 4 outer pacakage wrappers. YES, it really is that easy.
5) Midway Cards: Those blue bands on everyone’s wrists are available for only $36 and allow you to ride all day without having to worry about the tickets and paying for each ride individually. Although these bands are only available on weekdays – July 7, 8, 11 to 15 – they allow you to budget your Stampede accordingly and enjoy all the rides you can with your family and friends.