40th anniversary edition of Aggie Days to be held at Stampede Park

Aggie Days 2025 will be held at the Nutrien Western Event Centre on April 12 and 13. (Calgary Stampede)

While the 2025 Calgary Stampede may not be for another couple of months, western culture will take centre stage at Stampede Park this weekend.

Aggie Days returns for its 40th year on Saturday and Sunday.

The annual event celebrates farm life, using hands-on exhibits and activities to bring the agriculture industry to life.

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“Aggie Days offers plenty of educational, family-friendly fun – from planting seeds and exploring farming equipment to getting up close with farm animals in a safe, no-contact setting,” said a Wednesday news release.

The event is a family affair for volunteer Debbie Lee, who co-leads the dairy exhibit with her daughter Danielle.

“My dad helped organize the very first Aggie Days event in 1985, and we’ve participated ever since,” Lee said.

“My kids grew up being part of Aggie Days, and now my granddaughter helps too. It’s been part of our lives for the past 40 years.”

Another long-time feature of Aggie Days is the Bednarik family, who attend with their llamas and alpacas.

The Calgary Stampede says three generations of the family have helped teach people about the animals and their importance in farming and textile industries.

“There’s a long history of llamas and alpacas being used for their wool and as working animals,” explained Lisa Bednarik.

Aggie Days 2025 take place at the Nutrien Western Event Centre from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 12 and Sunday, April 13.

To celebrate the event’s 40th anniversary, you can head to the event centre’s rotunda between 1 and 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday for free cake.