The annual Calgary Stampede kicked off Friday and runs until July 18, with rodeo action, chuckwagon races, a midway, agricultural exhibits and livestock competitions. (Jeff McIntosh/Canadian Press)

Fewer people have flocked to the Calgary Stampede so far this year, with attendance down by about 13,600 people.

As of Saturday — day two of the 10-day event — overall attendance was down to 220,300 from 233,900 for the same period in 2009.

Even with a rainy Saturday, Stampede spokesperson Doug Fraser said it's too early to say what might be causing the lower attendance.

"Is it all weather related? [I] don't know. Some of it could be economic. All we know is we're not predicting some sort of trend right now."

Fraser admitted that people may be spending less on entertainment this year and that may be having an impact on the Stampede.

"Yes, we are in tougher times from an economy perspective, but we are trying to offer something that allows people to do what they can to get through the economic impact."

Fraser said this year's Stampede is offering more events that are free with admission to attract families who may be on a tighter budget.

"It's been a struggle for us. It's been a struggle for every major attraction like this. A lot of people think, 'Well this is discretionary money, we don't have to spend money on that.' So what we're trying to do is say, 'come on down and we'll watch your money for you.'"

The Calgary Stampede runs until July 18.