If there is one thing Calgarians are proud of, it is the generous hospitality the Calgary Stampede inspires. It is infectious. Whether it is a free pancake breakfast, a parking lot barbecue, a warm (OK, hot) handshake from a stranger or the all familiar “ Yahoo” cry, all of these gestures matter.
They remind us that hospitality matters. It is at the core of each of us. Hospitality evokes a sense of pride that matters.
The Stampede can bring out the best in us as a city. It allows us the step out of our comfort zone and expand our circles. We were ready for Stampede this year.
While some of us may still be recovering from the three or so years of the COVID pandemic and its remnant effects or the impacts of the recent water restrictions, most Calgarians were ready for this celebration to begin. A signature sign of Stampede has always been the gift of hospitality. It goes well beyond the signature white hats at the airport.
The spirit is alive and well in every neighbourhood. It provides the chance to widen and welcome the stranger and the neighbour in our midst. We have been itching to fully express our joy and gratitude that has been latent the past few years.
Hospitality is central to an alive city. We all know that the places we have travelled that left a good impression on us were the places where the people were friendly. When I have travelled the world over the years, the same truth rings true: The people make a place.
Hospitality matters and the places where we encou.
