Parking on Stampede Parade Day

Parking during the Calgary Stampede Parade

The Calgary Stampede Parade day is one of the busiest days of the year in downtown Calgary. Roads close early, parking is limited and access changes quickly.

Parade route and parking impacts

Understanding the parade route helps you decide where not to park and how to plan your trip.

  • Areas along the route experience the highest restrictions and closures
  • On-street ParkPlus zones along the parade route are not accessible during the parade
  • Parking and access begin to return to normal once roads reopen

For full road and closure details, visit The City’s special event road closures page

What this means for drivers

Parade Day parking works differently than the rest of Stampede.
 
  • If you park before closures begin, you may not be able to leave until roads reopen
  • Many lots and streets near the parade route close early
  • Access into the downtown core is limited during the morning

If you plan to drive, your best option is to park outside closure areas and walk, take transit or use rideshare.

Where not to park

Avoid parking in:
 
  • East Village (no parking starting the day before)
  • Parkades and lots along the parade route
  • On-street ParkPlus zones along the route

If you see temporary no-parking signs, do not park, even if space appears available.

Temporary street parking restrictions

Parade Day parking restrictions are in effect from 12 p.m. on Thursday, July 2 to approximately 2 p.m. on Friday, July 3.

  • Streets along the parade route and nearby areas are designated as temporary no-parking zones
  • Restrictions are clearly marked with signage
  • Enforcement is strict while restrictions are in effect

If you park in a restricted area, your vehicle may be ticketed or moved (short towed) to help keep traffic flowing.

All restrictions are lifted as soon as possible once the parade ends and roads reopen, typically around 1–2 p.m.

Parking lot closures

The following locations will be closed during Parade Day operations:

Closures begin Thursday, July 2 (day before parade):

  • Lot 55 (East Village) - 724 4 St S.E.

Closures begin Friday, July 3 at 6 a.m.:

  • Lot 74 (East Village) - 656 Confluence Way S.E.
  • Riverwalk Parkade - 620 6 Ave S.E.

Closures begin Friday, July 3 at 7:30 a.m.:

  • Lot 7 - 208 9 Ave S.W.
  • Werklund Centre Parkade (Lot 24) - 829 Macleod Tr S.E.
  • City Centre Parkade (Lot 25) – 340 10 Ave S.W.
    • 9 Ave S.E. access closed for the parade; access via 10 Ave S.E. remains available
  • City Hall Parkade (Lot 36) - 322 9 Ave S.E.
  • Centennial Parkade (Lot 54) - 608 9 Ave S.W. / 823 5 St S.W.
  • Convention Centre Parkade (Lot 60) - 727 1 St S.E.
  • Platform Parkade (Lot 62) - 399 9 Ave S.E.
  • Lot 87 - 310 6 Ave S.W.
  • The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland - 750 9 Avenue S.E.

These locations will reopen once the parade route is cleared and roads are restored (approx. 2 p.m.)

Where to park on Parade Day

If you plan to drive:

  • Park outside the main closure areas
  • Expect a 10–20 minute walk to the parade route or Stampede Park
  • Choose locations further away for better availability and easier exits

Any lots that are not listed above remain available during Parade Day.

Where to park during Stampede Parking lots and parkades

Getting to Stampede Park after the Parade

Many people attend both the parade and Stampede on the same day.

  • Walking is often the fastest option due to crowds and road closures
  • Transit, taxi and rideshare are available but may be busy
  • Expect delays when leaving the downtown core

Stampede Park is within walking distance from many parts of the parade route.

Tickets and towing

Avoid tickets and short tows

To avoid issues on Parade Day:

  • Follow all posted signs and temporary restrictions
  • Do not park in no-parking zones
  • Avoid blocking roads, driveways or access routes

Vehicles in restricted areas may be ticketed or moved (short towed) nearby. If you receive a ticket:

If your vehicle is moved or towed

If your vehicle is missing:

  • Contact the Calgary Parking Call Centre for help locating your vehicle
  • If your vehicle was short towed, staff can help identify where it was relocated nearby
  • Check surrounding streets in case your vehicle was moved within the area
  • Visit the Municipal Impound Lot if your vehicle was towed to get help finding and picking up your vehicle.