Calgary companies gearing up to celebrate Stampede

Local event planning companies report renewed enthusiasm for Stampede celebrations.

Event Group's President describes the increase in Stampede party bookings as a 180 degree turnaround from the last few years, when companies were scaling-back or cancelling their July parties.

Dave Howard tells 660News corporate Calgary wants to reward their employees by throwing a party, complete with food, drink and entertainment.

He says again this year, many of the celebrations will include a charitable component with those taking part in the fun being asked to give back to the community.

Sharon Barwick with Simply Elegant says inquiries are up and she is noticing an increase in what she calls "grassroots" parties.

Barwick says they are being asked to supply the food with company managers planning to serve up the grub.

Local window painting companies report they will be working flat out over the next five weeks, decorating store and business windows with western motifs.

Party rental companies that supply things like hay bales, fencing and wagon wheels say they too are seeing renewed interest in Stampede fun.

Adding to the excitement this year is a planned visit from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton.

They will be in the city to help kick off Stampede 2011.