The Calgary Stampede has kicked off with hundreds of thousands of people already taking in the sights. 

In the first three days attendance has surpassed the start of the last pre-pandemic Stampede.

With numbers still rolling in, there have already been over 436,464 visitors through the Stampede gates with Sunday, July 10 bringing in 164,520 alone. 

Stampede goer Austen Halarewich was surprised by the turnout when he went Monday afternoon. 

"[It's] way busier. After not being around a lot of people for a couple of years. It's kind of jarring. But then after a while, it's kind of like this nice familiar feeling."

Along with droves of people, long-time Stampeders might notice some changes to the grounds this year including the reduction of 'Weadickville'. 

Gone from the midway are the famous 'Slingshot' and massive 'Skyscraper.' Replaced by 'The Superwheel', North America's largest travelling Ferris wheel. This 150-foot, towering circle of steel is one of the main highlights and new attractions this year.

a massive Ferris wheel in Calgary At an incredible 150 feet. The Superwheel towers over the park.