The Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition held in Morris, had its 54th year this weekend. Established in 1963, the Stampede was a dream to be the largest rodeo East of the Calgary Stampede.

Total numbers have not been calculated, but it's estimated approximately 20,000 visitors attended this year.

Thursday was Military Day, and 500 active service members, veterans, and their families received free rodeo passes thanks to the Valley Agricultural Society. The passes were given to Military Family Resource Centre and a number of Legions, so those who dedicated their lives to serving could experience the Stampede

The Stampede is well known for its competitive rodeos and hosts professional riders from across Canada.

The Stampede also boasts a number of attractions and entertainment on its fair grounds.

Trish Cianflone, General Manager and Event Coordinator for The Manitoba Stampede shared what was new this year.

"This year we're offering free grounds admission, and we have lots of entertainment happening on the grounds. We have free concerts happening, we have Aaron Starr and Kendra Kay."

Kay is a successful local artist who was a former youth talent competitor at the Stampede.

A number of other events included a midway, vendors, a parade on Saturday, Performer and Songwriter talent Competitions Sunday, an Indigenous Village Culture Display, Activity Ranch for Kids, Texas Hold Em' tournament and casino, and different Pavilions from Folklorama each day.

The Manitoba Stampede is considered a Star Attraction by the Manitoba Government of Tourism and Heritage.