Get a two-fer: National Music Centre and Calgary Stampede a great pair

The National Music Centre (NMC) is inviting music fans to explore Canada’s country music history during the 2022 Calgary Stampede, from July 7-17. NMC will be offering extended hours at Studio Bell and pay-what-you-can admission for all 10 days of the Stampede to allow music fans more time to visit the museum.

As the official home of the Canadian Country Hall of Fame (CCMHF) and just a short walk from Stampede Park, Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, is a natural tie-in and worthwhile stop. The CCMHF consists of more than 1,270 artifacts, including instruments and memorabilia (textiles, awards, photographs), and represents over 150 different artists.

The collection includes items from Anne Murray,  k.d. lang, Hank Snow, Stompin’ Tom Connors (signed stomping board), Alberta's Paul Brandt and more. The collection is currently incorporated into the Homegrown Country exhibition. Showcasing some of Canada’s top country talents and the pioneers who paved the way for today’s rising stars, Homegrown Country originally launched in 2019, though new items were updated this year.

Items from other country stars are also woven throughout the building, including dazzling stage wear from The Mercey Brothers, Carrol Baker, and Shania Twain, along with Wilf Carter’s cowboy boots and saddle.

Included in the pay-what-you-can admission, Stampede Serenades feature up-and-coming artists with afternoon concerts in the NMC throughout the festival.

Visitors may also want to cap off a visit to Studio Bell with a stop at the reigning CCMA-winning Country Club of the Year, the King Eddy, for no cover daytime sets or a ticketed evening show.