An Afternoon of Horse Racing!

We were invited to our good friend Chris’s birthday this past weekend and it was at the Century Mile Horse Races. WHAT a pleasant surprise - we had the BEST TIME! I had been to the races at Northlands years ago but had yet to visit the new track south of Edmonton. It’s beautiful and I could not believe how family friendly it was. If you’re looking for a great afternoon to spend with the family; you should definitely check this out.

CENTURY MILE RACETRACK AND CASINO

The racetrack is located right by the Edmonton International Airport. It’s really easy to get to and you can see it from Highway 2. Keep in mind - there is a casino entrance and a regular entrance so if you are bringing the kids; go to the NORTH doors; not the ones that say “Casino” on the them. Century Mile offers a high performing one-mile racetrack with Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing year-round.

Century Mile Racetrack and Casino

COST

This was the thing that blew my mind - it’s absolutely free to come and watch the horses. Of course if you want to bet; yes thats going to cost you ( a little more on that below) and if you want to eat or drink. But if you want to just get out of the house and offer up something different for the kids; this is a great opportunity! NOTE: The Derby is not free in August…more on that below.

BETTING

If you do want to bet on the horses; the staff there are so gracious in literally walking you through it. Ask me how I know haha. Minimim bet is $2 and and can go up in $1 increments.

WHEN DO THE HORSES RACE ?

Check out the 2022 schedule below!

WEATHER

It seems like they race rain or shine ( unless its complete downpour) because it was raining for a bit when we went but they carried on! There is an indoor and outdoor viewing area. Outdoor is best ( in my opinion!).

MOST IMPORTANT: WHAT TO WEAR

This was what I really liked about Century Mile- you can wear whatever you want. I chose to go more traditional with a hat and skirt but there were lots of people out there in their street casual clothes. A few people were dressed up or at least had a hat on. It’s kinda fun to dress up a bit and you don’t feel out of place. For the derby ( being held Saturday August 20th) I would suggest dressing up. *NOTE: For the Derby, admission is NOT free. General Admission; which gets you into the trackside area; is $20 and includes a program and $5 Slot Play. Minors 17 and under are Free. More on the Derby HERE.

Hope you get to experience this neat idea just minutes outside out city this summer! It may have been our first time but it will not be the last! For a complete list of events (and there are a lot!) happening at Century Mile; head to their website HERE.

xoxo Jacks