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Cheers and jeers: Alberta Premier rolls through Calgary in Stampede parade

  • Dayne Patterson and Bill Graveland

  • Canadian Press

  • July 3, 2026

Young cowpokes cheer during the Calgary Stampede parade in Calgary on Friday, July 4, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

CALGARY -- Alberta Premier Danielle Smith rolled through downtown Calgary today in the city's largest annual parade to light applause and occasional cheers and jeers.

The Calgary Stampede ushers in summer each year with the massive parade, where onlookers filled sidewalks and spilled onto the streets.

Smith was at the helm of a horse-drawn carriage with members of her United Conservative cabinet in tow, often waving to the crowd.

Many warmly welcomed Alberta's leader, some yelling, "We love you, Danielle!"

Others booed the premier, and some cheered "Canada!"

Smith announced earlier this year a referendum on separation and, on Thursday, a proposal for a new pipeline to the B.C. coast.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 3, 2026.