
OUR HISTORY
Where it all began, shaped by more than a century of tradition.Rooted in tradition and built for community, bringing people together through shared history, local events, and meaningful connection.
The Millarville Races began in 1905 when local settlers formed the first Race Committee, establishing Alberta’s oldest race meet. Early events featured a marked track, handmade rails, and rented stalls. Racing briefly paused during WWI but resumed with proceeds supporting the Red Cross.
As the community expanded, so did the racetrack. In 1940, local members purchased the land through a community-funded debenture sale. The introduction of pari-mutuel betting in 1951 elevated Millarville to a recognized racing hub in Canada.
In 1971, the Millarville Racetrack, the Racetrack Hall Association, and the Priddis and Millarville Agricultural Societies formed the Millarville Racing and Agricultural Society. This collaboration enhanced operations and facilitated upgrades through community donations and volunteer efforts.
The Priddis and Millarville Fair launched in 1907, growing into a beloved annual event that attracts thousands and was named “Best Local Fair of the Year” in 1986. Over the years, new flagship events emerged, including:
– Millarville Farmers’ Market (1982)
– Millarville Christmas Market (1988)
– Run to the Farmers’ Market Half Marathon (2012)
– Chuckwagons, Chariots and Bulls under the lights
– Millarville Golf Tournament (2014)
For over a century, MRAS has united people through agriculture, education, and community events, thanks to generations of volunteers and donors.
In 2021, we unveiled the Legacy Mural, created by Little Monkey Metalworks to honour those who have supported MRAS. It features agricultural imagery and 3D metal horses, celebrating community spirit.
In 2023, volunteers and local businesses helped build an agricultural-themed playground. Our Name a Brick campaign allows families to commemorate their support by adding a brick to the memorial wall.
MRAS continues to evolve while honouring over 100 years of agricultural heritage, community involvement, and shared pride.
Special Awards:
2015 – Award of Distinction at the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies (AAAS)
2019 – nominated for the Chamber of Commerce Business of Distinction Award for Community Event
2020 – Government of Alberta’s Innovation Award for fundraising initiatives and strong ability to adapt our events successfully throughout the pandemic
2022 – nominated for Chamber of Commerce Business of Distinction Award for Community Attraction
2023 – Five AAAS Marketing Awards
This short account cannot capture the proud heritage and community spirit MRAS has provided to generations of families in Southern Alberta.
We invite you to visit us and experience Western Hospitality at its finest.

MRAS Land Acknowledgement
The Millarville Racing and Agricultural Society would like to acknowledge that we are situated on the traditional territories of the peoples of the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy (including the Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai First Nations), the Stoney Nakoda (including the Chiniki, Bearspaw and Goodstoney First Nations), as well as the Tsuut’ina First Nation. In addition, this area is also home to the Metis Nation of Alberta, District 4.
This acknowledgement is part of our journey towards reconciliation and a way to respect and honour this land and the diverse histories and cultures of the original occupants of this area.




