One of our favourite parts about Calgary Stampede is that no two visits ever feel the same.
This time, we had the chance to experience two things we’d never done before: a creator tasting with Pizza 73 and a behind-the-scenes look at the Coca-Cola Stage before the evening concert.
From giant pizza on a stick to watching thousands of people fill the grounds before the lights came up, it turned into one of those Stampede nights we’ll remember for a long time.
Pizza 73’s Cheesy Saddle Slice
Our evening started at the Pizza 73 Midway trailer, just steps from the BMO Centre, where we were invited to try their new Cheesy Saddle Slice.
Pizza on a stick immediately caught our attention, but what really surprised us was just how big these slices are.
They’re heavy, filling, and definitely big enough to share, especially if you’re planning to spend the day sampling different midway foods.
We tried two of the three available flavours:
Classic Cheese
Creamy Garlic & Pickles
Pepperoni with Creamy Garlic Drizzle, but since we don’t eat pepperoni, we weren’t able to try that one. Looking at it though, Pizza 73 definitely didn’t hold back. It was absolutely loaded with pepperoni, so if that’s your go-to pizza topping, this one is made for you.
As for our favourite…
Without a doubt, it was the Creamy Garlic & Pickles.
We honestly didn’t expect to love it as much as we did. The creamy garlic paired perfectly with the pickles, creating that salty, tangy bite that kept us going back for more. It’s one of those combinations that sounds unusual until you taste it.
The Classic Cheese was exactly what you’d want from a giant slice of pizza, cheesy, satisfying, and comforting, but the pickle version was the one we kept talking about long after we left.
Behind the Scenes at the Coca-Cola Stage
After grabbing dinner, we headed over to the Coca-Cola Stage.
We’ve watched plenty of Stampede concerts over the years, but this was the first time we were able to experience the venue from behind the scenes.
Watching the crowd slowly fill the grounds before the show started gave us a completely different appreciation for everything that goes into putting on these concerts.
As the sun began to set, the excitement in the crowd kept building until Ashe took the stage. We also caught the opening performances, making the entire evening feel like a full concert experience from start to finish.
One of the coolest parts was watching everything from an elevated backstage viewpoint. Seeing the lights, the production team, the artists preparing, and thousands of fans all from above was something we’ll never forget.
It’s a perspective that very few people get to experience, and it reminded us just how much work goes into creating those unforgettable Stampede nights.
Our Favourite Part
As incredible as both experiences were, our favourite part was simply getting to experience them together.
Whether we’re trying a new midway food, discovering a hidden gem, or watching live music under the Calgary sky, those are the moments we’ll remember long after Stampede is over.
Final Thoughts
If you’re heading to the Calgary Stampede this year, we’d definitely recommend adding Pizza 73’s Cheesy Saddle Slice to your food list, especially if you’re adventurous enough to try the Creamy Garlic & Pickles.
And if live music is part of your Stampede tradition, don’t miss a night at the Coca-Cola Stage. There’s something special about thousands of people singing along together on a warm summer evening.
Looking for more Calgary Stampede tips, food recommendations, concerts, and guides? Explore our full Calgary Stampede Resource Centre to help plan your visit.
We believe we’re all made to wander, especially when it means creating memories together.
