Historic Vilna – From First Winner to 2025 Nominee
The Village of Vilna holds a special place in Alberta’s story. In 2022, Vilna became the very first winner of Alberta’s Most Friendly Community in the Best of Alberta Awards. Since then, the awards have been revamped and expanded, but Vilna continues to shine — and is nominated again in 2025.
Founded in 1907 and incorporated as a Village in 1923, Vilna quickly grew around the CN Railway, a general store, and its most iconic landmark: the Vilna Historic Pool Hall. Opened in 1920, the Pool Hall is still Alberta’s oldest operating pool hall and barber shop — where you can get a hot shave, sip free coffee, and grab a Saturday burger between 11am and 3pm.
Vilna’s name means “peace” in Ukrainian — an ironic choice in 1919 when the world was gripped by war, revolution, and prohibition. Moonshining was as common as farming, and Vilna’s beginnings were anything but quiet. Today, the Village blends that spirited past with modern amenities, making it one of Alberta’s most charming boomtowns.
🌟 Things to See & Do in Vilna
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Vilna Historic Pool Hall & Barber Shop – Alberta’s oldest, still in operation.
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Vilna Giant Mushrooms – quirky roadside photo stop.
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Vilna Farmers Market – generally held the 1st Sunday of every month.
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Boomtown Days Parade, Fair & Farmers Market – generally held in mid-August.
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Historic Vilna Show N’ Shine – generally held the day after Boomtown Days.