One of the most iconic images linked to the Calgary Stampede, and the city itself, is a white hat. People from all walks of life, including a Second World War spy, city volunteers, the Dalai Lama and Ozzy Osborne have taken part in the Cowtown tradition.
But Smithbilt Hats, the company that produces the headgear, says they’re losing big time with the cancellation of the 2020 Calgary Stampede. “They’re one of my biggest customers,” vice-president Brian Hanson said. “Probably 70 per cent of our business is directly related to the Stampede.” In a typical year, Hanson said the company would sell 10,000 felt cowboy hats and 30,000 straw ones over the 10-day festival.