rural roots
Western Life
Airdrie is home to a number of activities that celebrate its rich farming and ranching heritage. Airdrie and District Agricultural Society Celebrating its 40th year as an agricultural society in 2014, the Airdrie and District Agricultural Society (ADAS) is a family friendly organization dedicated to promoting agriculture as well as a healthy relationship between rural and urban communities. Founded in 1909, the ADAS is a dynamic non-profit organization with a history of successful community contributions and a diverse membership base. In addition to spearheading and supporting a variety of community projects, ADAS organizes and hosts a number of popular local events that connect Airdrie’s strong rural roots with the thriving urban centre it has now become. Highlights include a ranch-hand competition in July that showcases life on a working ranch; a fall fair in August; as well as an old-time harvest event in September and spring seeding demo in April. airdrieagsociety.com
Airdrie Pro Rodeo Attracting world and Canadian rodeo champions as well as more than 10,000 spectators over five days, the Airdrie Pro Rodeo never fails to excite. Action-packed events include bareback
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and saddlebronc riding, steer wrestling, steer riding, team roping, barrel racing and bull riding. The 47th annual rodeo takes place June 27 to July 1, and includes daytime activities for children, plus live entertainment and beer gardens in the evening. A short drive away from Airdrie, the rodeo grounds are located west on Highway 567.
Bikes & Bulls Charity Event 2014 marks the fourth year the Airdrie Oilmen’s Association will host this annual fundraiser in support of the Airdrie community. The unique event takes place Aug. 22 to 23 and is sure to entertain with a bike rally, concerts and pro bull riding at the Airdrie rodeo grounds west on Highway 567.
Calgary Police Rodeo The only police rodeo in Canada, this amateur competition features contestants from all over the police community throughout Canada and the United States. At the Airdrie rodeo grounds on Aug. 16 in 2014, this family friendly event offers a full slate of rodeo events, a children’s carnival, exhibitions, concessions and free on-site camping. In the evening, cowboys and adult spectators enjoy a barn dance featuring country music entertainment.