Wainwright Rodeo And Chuckwagon Racing Enthralled The Crowd

The Wainwright Stampede has once again proven why it stands among Canada’s premier professional rodeo events, thrilling thousands of spectators from June 20 to 22 with unforgettable performances, high-energy chuckwagon races, and a celebration of western heritage that won’t soon be forgotten.

From the moment the festivities kicked off with the Chamber Stampede Kick-Off Party on June 19 at the Peace Memorial Multiplex parking lot, it was clear this year’s event was going to be something special. Families enjoyed an evening packed with entertainment, including bouncy castles, Chicken John’s Petting Zoo, face painting, an RCMP Dunk Tank, and more. A lively market, food trucks, a chili cook-off, and an evening DJ brought an exciting atmosphere to downtown Wainwright as the community came together to mark the start of the Stampede.

Over the three days that followed, the Stampede grounds were alive with action as four exhilarating Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) performances showcased the talent and grit of some of the best rodeo athletes in the country. Events like Team Roping, Saddle Bronc, Barrel Racing, Bull Riding, Steer Wrestling, and Ladies Breakaway Roping had the crowd on the edge of their seats, while the bravery and skill of the competitors drew cheers and applause throughout the weekend.

Complementing the rodeo excitement, the thunderous WPCA Chuckwagon Races drew enthusiastic crowds. The sound of pounding hooves and the sight of determined drivers pushing through copious amounts of slick muck for the finish line was a true highlight of the event.

Friday night’s rodeo was followed by a high-spirited dance at the Elks Hall, where Danny & The Dusters from Eatonia, Saskatchewan, kept the energy high late into the evening. Saturday’s festivities began with a vibrant Downtown Parade themed “Celebrating the Centennial of the Wainwright Clock Tower.” Crowds lined the streets to enjoy a colourful procession that paid tribute to the town’s history and pride.

Saturday continued with a full day of activities, culminating in the Rodeo Under the Lights and the Stampede Cabaret at Wainwright PMM, which featured standout performances by Jordyn Pollard & The Dirt Rich Band. Their dynamic stage presence and country flair kept the celebration going well into the night.

Sunday brought the weekend to a thrilling close with one final CPRA performance.

Driver Chance Flad driving the Hall & Company Professional Chartered Accountants Outfit was the 2025 Wainwright Stampede Champions.

“Inclement weather that began on Friday made for unsafe racetrack conditions that did not improve in time for Sunday night racing in Wainwright, thus shortening the 2025 Wainwright Stampede to a two-day aggregate competition. Chance Flad, driving the Hall & Company Professional Chartered Accountants Outfit, and along with outriders Nolan Cameron and Trey MacGillivray, captured the 2025 Wainwright Stampede championship after posting the best two-day aggregate time of 2:11.16. It’s Flad’s first career victory on the WPCA Pro Tour who ran his first full season on the professional chuckwagon circuit in 2019,” said WPCA.

Families and fans also enjoyed West Coast Amusements, which offered over 15 exciting rides, 15 game booths, and a dozen food vendors, providing something for every taste—from cotton candy and candy apples to savoury treats like poutine and Hawaiian shaved ice.

Throughout the weekend, the Wainwright Frontier and Exhibition Agricultural Society ran 50/50 raffles during each performance, giving attendees seven chances to win big. The 2025 RAM 1500 raffle also generated a buzz, with many eager participants hoping for the grand prize, but Kim Franklin was victorious.

From top-tier rodeo action and powerful chuckwagon racing to the music, food, carnival fun, and community spirit, the 2025 Wainwright Stampede was a success. Organizers, volunteers, and participants alike contributed to an event that will be remembered for years to come, once again cementing the Stampede’s place as a cornerstone of Alberta’s summer events calendar.