Thousands of spectators lined the streets of Ponoka on Friday morning as the community celebrated the 90th Ponoka Stampede with its annual parade, highlighting this year’s Year of the Cowgirl theme.
Families filled the parade route as dozens of floats, community organizations, businesses and equestrian entries made their way through downtown, tossing candy to children along the route.
Serving as parade marshal was Katy Lucas, the 2014 Miss Ponoka Stampede and 2015 Miss Rodeo Canada. Lucas, now an on-air personality with Cowboy Channel, led the parade wearing her Miss Rodeo Canada attire.
Ponoka Stampede Parade Marshal Katy Lucas waves to the crowd. Central Alberta Online/Josiah Navratil
Honouring past royalty
A highlight of this year’s parade was the participation of more than 30 former Miss Ponoka Stampede titleholders, with alumni representing seven decades of Stampede history. The earliest participant was crowned in 1956, reflecting the long-standing tradition of the pageant and its connection to the Stampede.
Several local and provincial dignitaries also took part, including Premier Danielle Smith and Ponoka Mayor Kevin Ferguson. During the parade, a gust of wind blew Ferguson’s cowboy hat into the crowd before a young spectator retrieved it and returned it to the mayor.
Miss Ponoka Stampede alumni wave back to the crowd, the earliest from 1956. Central Alberta Online/Josiah Navratil
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Three marching bands entertained spectators along the route, while one peach themed float belonged to a group from Penticton, B.C.
Local radio station Sunny 94 also participated in the parade, earning a second-place ribbon for its vehicle entry.
Sunny 94 Drive Home host Adam Hamilton (left) and Owen Hamilton (right) celebrate their 2nd place ribbon with Sunny. Central Alberta Online/Josiah Navratil
The 2026 Ponoka Stampede runs from June 25 to July 1 and features professional rodeo, chuckwagon racing, live entertainment and special events celebrating the Year of the Cowgirl.
Those interested in learning more can visit the Ponoka Stampede website.
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