Calgary Stampede on a budget: A how-to guide

In a year when oil prices are down and layoffs are happening all around us, the Calgary Stampede is a welcomed distraction for many in our city.

• Economic slump means fewer Calgary Stampede parties

And while corporate parties and fine dining will continue for some, many Calgarians could be looking to do this year's festivities on a budget.

Here are some tips on how to avoid breaking the bank at the Calgary Stampede.

Discounts

Stampede Bucks

Save $10before you even hit the grounds bybuying $50 worth of Stampede Bucks for $39.99 at Costco.They can be used anywhere on the park.Available while supplies last.

Ride and Play

A pack of 60 coupons or ride-all-day passes can save you as much as $20 on the midway. They also giveyou early admission on Sneak-a-Peek.Available at Safeway and Sobeys until July 2.

Sneak a Peek

For an early look at this year's Stampede, head down to the grounds onJuly 2from 5 p.m. to midnight. Admission is$9 and you can access the gates at4 p.m.with a ride-and-play pass. Comes with "Express Access Pass"to Midway rides at no extra charge.

Transit Passes
Calgary Transit is offering discounted day passes July 2-12. Adults are $6.50 and youth are $4.50

Free admission days

Suncor Family Day:July 5

Free entry from 6 a.m. to9 a.m. Includes free pancake breakfast for the first 20,000guests. Breakfast begins at 7 a.m. Midway opens at 9 a.m. There is also a free variety show on the Grandstand stage that includes the Ukrainian Dancers Suzirya, mini chuckwagons and the 2014 winner of the Nashville North Star competition Dylan Gillet.

Western Heritage Day:July 7

Free admission for 65years and over.Includes commemorative pins, free WestJet Skyrides, free rodeo and evening show tickets available while supplies last. Free coffee and donuts in the Agrium Western Event Centre at 9 a.m. and other free entertainment.

BMO Kids Day:July 8

Kids 12years and under get in free with an adult from 7-9 a.m. Includes free breakfast from 8-9:30 a.m., free thundersticks, a free variety show at the Grandstand stage and discounted midway packs.

Other tips

The Stampede Parade on July 3is always free and fun if you can find a good spot along the parade route.

Of course most venues on site offer free shows, including the Superdogs, Cirque Eloize (new and exclusive to Stampede), and nightly concerts at the Coca Cola Stage including Kieza, Lights and The Arkells.

If you want to catch the rodeo or eveningGrandstand show,rush tickets are available every day on site starting at 11 a.m. at the box office for around $20.

And while some of the midway treats may behard to resist,you can always pack snacks and water to take to the grounds.