BLEACHERS Headline the Calgary Stampede!

By Kayla Harper

For an otherwise irrelevant and forgotten city, the one thing Calgary is known for is it’s annual Calgary Stampede taking place in the first two weeks of July every year, a tradition dating back to 1912.  The Calgary Stampede is a celebration of southern Alberta’s western heritage, local agriculture, music and community with approximately 900 thousand attendees every year from across Canada and around the world.

Like any festival, it’s compromised of lots and lots of overpriced food trucks, games, party tents and rides.  Also featuring a rodeo, agriculture/animal showcases, local vendors and services etc.  In addition, the most attractive event and the only reason someone like myself would even consider attending is the concerts.

With various stages and venues, the Calgary Stampede draws in a lineup of artists from around the world -some years this lineup is more impressive and/or disappointing than others.  Some notable artists that have played in recent years include: Sabrina Carpenter (2017), Our Lady Peace (2017),  Alexisonfire (2018),. Lord Huron (2023), Jimmy Eat World (2023), Tegan and Sara (2023),  Mother Mother (2023), Billy Talent (2024), G-Eazy (2024), Peach Pit (2024), Benson Boone (2024)…etc.  Of the artists attending this year, some of the most exciting acts included Fall Out Boy, Lights, Don Toliver, De La Soul, Bleachers etc.

I only attended one night to see Bleachers headline as they were the only band in the lineup I was truly interested in (other than Fall Out Boy, but I was sick and couldn’t attend).  My sister really wanted to see Role Model who was opening for Bleachers, however, he was replaced with Del Water Gap who turned out to be even better!

As someone who had never listened to the band prior, I thought Del Water Gap played a riveting set, maintaining the energy throughout the entire thing.  Even in our position at barricade, but slightly off to the right side, their sound was amazing.  A super tight band with excellent stage presence they kept the audience engaged and involved for the whole set.  I enjoyed every song and thought their setlist was a good length and well put together.

Bleachers headlined and played an exhilarating set blending hits with the deep-cuts and even a surprise performance of Lana Del Rey and Jack Antonoff’s song “Margaret” dedicated to his wife, Margaret Qualley.  There was never a dull moment from the saxophonists to the guitarists and drummer every member was putting on a show, frontman, Antonoff kept the crowd engaged consistently making them feel as if they were a part of it.  The first ever Bleachers show in Calgary, hopefully it won’t be the last!

While there are parts of the Calgary Stampede I don’t agree with, other than the price-gauging and crowds, it’s worthwhile to check out for the shows.  Unless it’s being played at the Scotiabank Saddledome or in the Cowboy Music Festival lineup, the shows are relatively cheap -a $25 entry fee and you’re in!   If you ever happen to be in the area during the Calgary Stampede and an artist you like happens to be playing it’s a must!