By Becky Best-Bertwistle
Rodeo has a huge presence in Alberta, but our neighbours to the south are often what comes to mind when you think of big-city rodeos. However, for the last 44 years Edmonton has been host to the biggest rodeo event of the season – the Canadian Finals Rodeo (CFR). Don't miss these events scheduled Nov. 8 to 12 suited for both beginners and seasoned rodeo pros. [Photo credit: flickr.com/photos/iqremix]
2017 could mark the CFR’s final year at Northlands Coliseum and possibly in Edmonton, so don't miss out on this chance to celebrate western spirit during rodeo week. Top athletes tour the country all year competing in Canadian rodeos and top earners are then invited to compete in this final event of the season in Edmonton. With a total prize purse of more than a million dollars, it's a high-performance event with top-level athletes from all over North America.
If you want to fit in with the rodeo crowd before the party starts, Edmonton has a number of western wear stores and shops to find the perfect pair of cowboy boots. Lammle’s has two locations in the city (West Edmonton Mall, Calgary Trail), with classic western button-ups, embellished belts and hats galore. Diablo Boots on Gateway Boulevard stocks boots made at the Canada West boot company, expertly produced in Winnipeg. Welsh’s Saddlery (Manning Drive) also has a wide selection of tack and accessories for your four-legged rodeo pals.
There are more than 50 local hotels partnered with CFR for the week, including the Crash Hotel and the Hyatt Place. Hotels located along the LRT line are a quick and convenient ride to the rodeo grounds.
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Discover more happening in Edmonton this November:
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Farm Fair International, held annually in conjunction with CFR, is an agricultural event hosted at Northlands from Nov. 4 to 13. The fair includes everything from cattle and horse livestock sales to unique events such as trick riding and stock dog competitions. Don't miss the Rank Mini Pony Canadian Classic, scheduled Nov. 8 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. You can also take in some mounted shooting trick riding Nov. 4 and 5 at Northlands. Tickets start at $10 and select events are included in the ticket price for the main rodeo.
Scheduled to take place right next door to Farm Fair International, the Ram Country Marketplace is your go-to stop for all your western shopping needs. More than 100 lifestyle and agricultural retailers from across the province set up to sell their wares to rodeo attendees. Here you can find everything from the perfect piece of western art to a new horse trailer.
Scheduled the same weekend as CFR at Rogers Place, PBR events claim to be the "toughest sport on dirt." The Global Cup will be hosted in Edmonton from Nov. 9 to 11. Teams are organized along national lines and Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and the United States will all be represented. Country artist Jake Owen will take the stage after the events Nov. 11. Tickets start at $33.
This western dance hall is hosted at Northlands every night after the main event. This year’s lineup includes country stars Dallas Smith, Aaron Pritchett and Tanya Tucker. The concerts are a fun opportunity to put your two-stepping skills – and your new boots – to the test!
The Canadian Finals Rodeo draws audiences, artists and athletes from across Canada – so don’t miss out on your chance to experience western culture first hand! For a full rundown of rodeo events scheduled, click here.
