Hays Annual Stampede Breakfast 2012

The who’s who of Calgary business, a ‘petting zoo of politicians’ (per Mayor Nenshi), and thousands of early risers joined the 62nd annual Hays Breakfast at Heritage Park on Sunday morning.  One of the largest events of its kind in the city, the Hays Breakfast has become a legend.

Tim Hus, & his Traveling Band, the award-winning Calgary Stampede Showband, roving entertainment, a military fly-by and the traditional ‘sillabub’ creation, kept visiting dignitaries and guests amused throughout.

The milk-based alcoholic sillabub creation ceremony is a key component of the event.  Fresh-squeezed milk from a Holstein cow (led in to bagpipe accompaniment) starts off the concoction, followed by Gilbey’s Gin, then what appears to be anything and everything added to the mixing bowl… Tide, Pepto Bismol, Tums, Windex, engine oil are just a few.  A much sought after certificate of bravery is handed out to guests brave enough to try it.

Photography was a lot of fun – vibrant colours, laughter and loads of cowboy gear…

Crowds enjoy the early morning blue sky & sunshine at Heritage Park.

The talented Calgary Stampede Showband

Crowds part for the Calgary Stampede Showband’s performance which kicked off breakfast.

No Stampede Breakfast would be complete without sausage, eggs and pancakes…

Pride and respect as Oh Canada is performed…

Colourful costumes and fan appreciation…

Mayor Nenshi enjoys a laugh during the proceedings…

Crowd appreciation…

Harry the Horse (official Calgary Stampede mascot) meets the Holstein cow about to be milked.

The piper leading the cow in for milking…

Dan Hays milking the Holstein for the first key ingredient in the legendary alcoholic sillabub…

The sillabub creation – starting with gin…

A little Windex to ‘keep the insides clean’…

Lucky ladies getting autographs from the rodeo stars…

To see the full event: http://photoswithfinesse.com/Images/Exciting_Events/Hays2012/index.htm