The Real West

For over 60 years, The Nicola Valley Rodeo Association has been committed to preserving the ranching & rodeo heritage of the Nicola Valley & creating community. The NVRA hosts a wide range of events, including ranch rodeos, youth rodeos, barrel racing, roping & other equestrian events & clinics. We also host a variety of non-equestrian events.

Scroll down to see upcoming events for 2023. We are still taking bookings and more events may be added soon.


We couldn't put on a top caliber rodeo without our sponsors. Check out our generous supporters!

Our season is April to October

Check out our events calendar to see what's happening at the grounds!

The best place for outdoor events in Merritt

With plenty to offer, including covered stands & lots of room for camping, our grounds will meet your needs!

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    NVRA Memberships, Roping Nights & Open Riding Info

    2023 Season
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    NVRA is pleased to host open riding at our arena. Click the "more info" link below for times and prices. Sadly we were unable to set up our regular weekly roping in 2022, but are working on scheduling some special fun evenings for 2023. Check back here for updates and join our Facebook group "Merritt Rodeo Grounds Events and Practices" here to stay current.

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    High School Rodeo

    May 6& 7, 2023
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    This is an annual event hosted by our local High School Rodeo Club, under the umbrella of the BC High School Rodeo association. The two day rodeo gives an opportunity for dedicated youth from around the region to compete with each other to earn points for a position in the finals at the end of the season. Come out and be surprised at the high level these kids compete at! Admission is free.

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    Little Britches Rodeo

    June 3 & 4, 2023
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    Another annual event that gives cowboys and cowgirls of the future a chance to develop their skills in competition against others in their age group. This is a family oriented sport that benefits these young competitors in several ways including the responsibility they learn through caring for their animals, as well as the respect, camaraderie and sportsmanship they gain as competitors. Admission is free.

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    BC Cutting Horse shows

    May 12 -14 & June 9 - 11, 2023
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    Cutting shows are coming to Merritt! Rooted in ranch work, this popular sport showcases the horse's athleticism and ability to handle cattle. The horse and rider work together as a team before a judge or panel of judges to demonstrate their ability.

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    Rendevouz 2023: BC Back Country Horsemen Society

    May 26 - 28, 2023
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    The annual gathering and AGM for members of this organization. BCHBC provides equestrians who are interested in trail riding and the back country with a safe and social learning atmosphere where people of all ages can enjoy trail riding and the wilderness experience.

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    Nicola Valley Kennel Club DOG SHOW

    June 30 - July 2 
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    More information coming soon!. 

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    Canadian Bluemoon Elvis Festival

    July 14, 15, 16, 2023
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    This great little music festival pays tribute to one of the world’s best entertainers, Elvis Presley, with a shout out to other greats as well, this year featuring Shania Twain. This is a charity weekend event that will raise funds for the B.C. Wounded Warriors/First Responders Foundation. Come and enjoy a terrific line up of talented performers all weekend long. 

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    Nicola Valley Ranch Rodeo

    August 26, 2023
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    This event kicks off rodeo week in Merritt and there was a great turnout in 2022, both for teams and spectators. A ranch rodeo is a traditional type of rodeo in which teams of cowboys (and cowgirls) from different ranches compete against each other in events based on the type of work they do every day. Come on out and cheer for our local ranch teams - admission is free! Concession and beer garden will be open. 

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    63nd Annual Pro Rodeo

    Coming on Sep 2 & 3, 2023
    NVRA Rodeo Grounds

    Planning is underway for the 2023 rodeo! The 2022 event was a great success, enjoyed by record crowds. Thank you to our generous sponsors and volunteers for making it possible and a HUGE thank you to everyone that attended. You all helped to make a great weekend happen!SEE YOU NEXT TIME

Family Fun For Everyone!

Get In Touch With Us

Address

499 Lindley Creek Road,Merritt, British Columbia

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