World-Class Architecture & Design

Once a beacon for concerts, hockey games, Olympic events, and rodeos at the Stampede Corral, the iconic Neon Cowboy witnessed decades of celebrations. Now, it has been reimagined at nearly a 1:1 scale as a marquee installation in the expanded BMO Centre.

"The Neon Cowboy was truly a visual symbol of Stampede Park’s history and Calgarian’s Nostalgia. The re-envisioned Neon Cowboy will continue to exude our community spirit as we welcome the world to Stampede Park and the expanded BMO Centre".

This impressive installation is prominently displayed on the main floor of the BMO Centre expansion, where visitors can enjoy this tribute to Calgary's heritage during conventions, meetings, and special events.

The Brand Room is a premier 3,000 sq. ft. event space in the BMO Centre, named after the iconic brands of the Stampede’s “Big Four” founders. This elegantly designed venue is filled with natural light and elevated finishes, including charred wood, leather, and copper accents. Complementing the indoor space is an expansive 11,000 sq. ft. covered outdoor balcony, offering year-round panoramic views of Stampede Park—a perfect setting for gatherings, receptions, and special events.

To welcome guests, the Brand Room doors feature a custom stitch design by Alberta Boot Company, paying tribute to the Calgary Stampede’s heritage with their iconic “Calgary” stitch pattern. This design marries the Stampede’s Western legacy with contemporary elegance, adding a distinctive touch to this unique meeting space.

At the heart of the BMO Centre expansion, The Exchange serves as a dramatic central gathering space, anchored by Canada’s largest indoor fireplace standing an impressive 21 meters tall. Clad in blackened steel and copper, the fireplace is a nod to Calgary’s western heritage, evoking the warmth and connection of gathering around a campfire to share ideas.

The Exchange is a flexible, lobby-style space designed for meetings and events, with adaptability for any time of day. Featuring abundant natural light and thoughtfully arranged furniture groupings, this space is ideal for hosting informal and impromptu meetings, creating a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere for event attendees.

The Champions Ballroom, a massive 50,000 sq. ft. event space, is inspired by the elite equine athletes bred and celebrated by the Calgary Stampede. In keeping with the western theme, the Percheron Ballroom spans 20,000 sq. ft. and is named after the powerful and hardworking Percheron draft horses, symbolizing the history of agriculture in the region.

Both the Champions Ballroom and Percheron Ballroom are part of the BMO Centre’s equine-themed event spaces, alongside the Palomino Room, offering versatile and spacious venues for large conventions, galas, meetings, and special events.

The Pavilion Lights at the BMO Centre feature 1,500 unique lighting soffits that illuminate the building’s striking 170-ft. curved canopy. Extending seamlessly from the expansion to the outdoor plaza on the building’s south side, the lights create an inviting and dynamic atmosphere for event guests.

Inspired by the energy and movement of the Calgary Stampede, the Pavilion Lights reflect the excitement of the rides, fireworks, and festivities that define the annual celebration. This captivating light display enhances the sense of arrival, welcoming visitors to the BMO Centre’s world-class event spaces.

The BMO Centre is designed with inclusivity and sustainability in mind, offering features that enhance the experience for all guests. Inside, the building includes universal washrooms with barrier-free stalls, adult change tables, and multi-layered signage with braille. Navigation is made easier with contrasting materials, tactile handrail cues, warning strips at stairs, automatic door controls, and publicly accessible elevators. Cane-detectible barriers and service animal relief areas are additional measures supporting a fully accessible venue. The BMO Centre Expansion is proud to receive Gold Certification from the Risk Hansen Foundation showcasing venue accessibility for guests with varying disabilities, ranging from mobility, vision and hearing.

On the sustainability front, the BMO Centre incorporates eco-friendly measures, such as natural lighting, indoor water use reduction, on-site stormwater management, energy-efficient LED lighting, and water-saving fixtures. An organic composting program aims to divert 80% of waste from landfills, reflecting the venue’s commitment to sustainability.

The Spirit of Water is a breathtaking public art installation by renowned artist Gerry Judah, part of the 14-piece outdoor public art collection at Stampede Park. This awe-inspiring sculpture, standing 70 ft. tall and 45 ft. wide, weighing in at 112,000 pounds, symbolizes the power and vitality of water. Located in the 40,000 sq. ft. plaza of the BMO Centre, this striking artwork creates a memorable focal point for visitors attending meetings, conventions, and events.

The Spirit of Water serves as a celebrated landmark, inviting both local and international guests to experience Calgary's commitment to art, community, and culture.