CALGARY — Calgary city councillors have begun an emergency debate on late-night sound levels at the Stampede festival amid a tit-for-tat spat with the province that has morphed into a full-on standoff.

The issue surrounds how much noise levels should be reduced and when outdoor events should be shut down on weekdays in order to be respectful to those who live nearby.

The current rules call for a five-decibel cut and concerts end by midnight on those days.

That has caught the ire of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who says the new rules suggest a “fun police” approach that will harm business and the festival.

Her government has now sent a letter to Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas and councillors, urging they rethink the rules to avoid the province from having to step in.

Farkas has replied on social media, saying the noise limits are reasonable and that his job is to stand up for the best interests of all Calgarians rather than “out-of-town” politicians.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 23, 2026.

The Canadian Press