Calgary Stampede chuckwagon tarp auction raises record $6.1M ahead of 2026 festival

The Calgary Stampede’s annual chuckwagon tarp auction generated a record $6.1 million in sponsorship bids, according to event organizers, marking a significant increase of about $2 million from the previous year.

The funds secure advertising partnerships for 27 drivers competing in the Rangeland Derby, one of the festival’s signature events. This year’s Calgary Stampede is scheduled to begin July 3.

The highest bid reached $550,000, placed by Bar L5 Ranch for driver Rae Croteau Jr., organizers said following the Thursday evening auction.

The annual auction allows corporate sponsors, many from Alberta’s energy sector, to purchase advertising space on chuckwagon tarps. The event is widely դիտ as an informal indicator of economic conditions in Calgary, given its reliance on discretionary corporate spending tied to the region’s resource-based economy.

Croteau Jr. said the level of support reflects both the strength of the sport and broader economic confidence. He added that sponsorship funding supports not only race operations but also year-round costs such as maintaining horses and equipment.