There is no event quite like the Calgary Stampede. For ten unforgettable days, Calgary comes alive with energy, western hospitality, and some of the biggest corporate events of the year. For the Hip Image team, Stampede 2026 was our biggest and most exciting one yet.
This year, we had the privilege of bringing branded photo experiences to 19 different Stampede events, partnering with organizations that wanted to do more than simply entertain guests. They wanted to create memorable experiences that reflected their brand and gave people something worth sharing.
From early morning pancake breakfasts to exclusive corporate parties, sponsor activations, VIP events and large-scale public experiences, our team was everywhere Stampede took us.
One of the things we love most about Stampede is that no two events are ever the same. That’s why we never take a one-size-fits-all approach.
Our team worked with clients to customize experiences that matched their audience, objectives and brand personality. Whether guests were looking for a classic western keepsake or a cutting-edge AI experience, every activation was designed to create genuine engagement.
Throughout Stampede we deployed nearly every experience in the Hip Image lineup, including:
Sometimes the classics never go out of style.
Our traditional photo booths were busier than ever, complete with professional lighting, instant branded prints, digital delivery and what has become one of our signature features: an incredible collection of unique western props.
Forget the same old cowboy hats and plastic bandanas.
Our team curates fun, high-quality props that encourage guests to let loose, laugh together and create photos they’ll actually want to keep and share.
Artificial Intelligence wasn’t just a conversation starter. It became one of the biggest attractions at many of our corporate events.
Guests loved seeing themselves transformed into imaginative western-inspired characters and customized AI creations that felt personalized, unexpected and incredibly shareable.
For brands, AI continues to be one of the most effective ways to create long lineups, social engagement and memorable conversations.
Our 360 experiences remained a favourite for groups looking to capture the excitement of Stampede in motion.
With custom branding, music and instant sharing, guests left with dynamic videos that extended the event experience long after they walked away.
One of our highlights this Stampede was bringing our Glambot™ to the Simons activation at the Cowboys Music Festival.
The response was incredible.
Guests stepped into a true red-carpet experience, creating cinematic slow-motion videos that looked like they belonged at an awards show. The combination of high-energy music, fashion and the excitement of the Cowboys Music Festival created an unforgettable experience that guests lined up to enjoy.
Not every activation happens inside a venue.
This year we also brought our mobile experience to the Calgary Stampede Parade, interacting directly with thousands of parade spectators and capturing the excitement as Calgary officially kicked off Stampede.
Being able to move with the crowds allowed us to create authentic moments while bringing corporate brands directly into the celebration.
People often ask us which activation is the most popular.
The truth is, technology is only part of what makes an experience memorable.
Whether it’s a traditional photo booth, AI, 360 or Glambot™, the real difference comes from the people behind it.
Our team spends every event encouraging guests, directing poses, creating energy, making people comfortable and helping even the most camera-shy attendees have fun. That energy is what transforms a simple photo into a memorable experience and keeps lineups full all day long.
To every client who trusted Hip Image to be part of your Calgary Stampede celebrations, thank you.
From breakfasts to evening parties, sponsor activations to public events, we loved every minute of helping brands connect with their audiences in meaningful, memorable ways.
We’re already looking ahead to Stampede 2027 and dreaming up even bigger, more creative experiences.
If you’re planning a corporate event, conference, festival or brand activation, we’d love to help create an experience your guests won’t stop talking about.
