The history of the Calgary Stampede will be showcased in the new $44 million center, open year-round

If 10 days in July weren't enough to scratch the Calgary Stampede itch, a new center that will give visitors an immersive year-round experience of the show will soon satisfy that need.

More than a century of events and artifacts from the largest outdoor exhibition on Earth have been given a home at the Sam Center, which aims to combine traditional and modern ways of displaying treasured archives.

Inspired by historic prairie architecture, the $44 million center offers interactive exhibits, multimedia shows, permanent displays and a restaurant.

Don Taylor, scissors in hand, paid tribute at Wednesday's ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new space. His father, the late Calgary philanthropist Samuel Taylor, is the center's namesake.

“For years and years, people have come to the city of Calgary and newcomers and they always say, well, what's the Stampede about? And you couldn't take them except for the two-week Stampede,” Taylor said.

“And now we have something that can show what the Stampede is all about 365 days a year.”

Don Taylor, who gave $15 million to the Sam Center, said the project took about 13 years to complete. (Terri Trembath/CBC)

As a pioneer in Alberta, Taylor said horses were a big part of his father's life.

“The horse is part of Stampada culture and it's part of Western Canadian culture. I think the species should be preserved. It's part of our history … and we should celebrate it.”

Christine Leppard, the Sam Center's manager of exhibits and experiences, said putting visitors at the heart of the multi-sensory Stampede collection is by design.

“You'll immerse yourself in the Stampede parade through digital tools, you'll add yourself to one of our iconic Stampede posters, learn the art of auctioneering, learn the art of trick roping, and meet amazing people along the way. helped shape our community,” Leppard said.

Calling the space a “storytelling gem,” Leppard said the center is not only about preserving and displaying Stampede memorabilia, but also about bringing people together.

“It's a space where lifers can come year-round and be inspired by the stories of our community, and where people who are new or traveling from around the world can enjoy a hearty meal. the Calgary community represented in the Stampede every year.”

The Sam Center will officially open to the public on May 29.