Miller Spectacular Shows

The Miller family has five generations and more than 100 years of experience in the carnival business.

It all started in 1906 when the great-grandfather, Gene Miller, of current owner Fred Miller, formed Miller Concession based out of Little Rock, Ark. The business started by providing food for fairs across the country. The little business eventually grew when Gene’s son, Burt Miller, began managing carnivals and buying equipment.

The success evolved into creating their own carnival: Miller’s Gala Exposition Show, which started in 1958. From there the named changed to Miller Brothers Spectacular in the 1970’s to Miller Spectacular Shows in 1983.

Now Fred Miller, his son and father Johnny Miller, run the business. “It all started years ago with seven food operations,” Miller said. Now he owns 55 rides.

With multiple rides, games and food trailers, Miller said placement becomes key. Miller said there is only so much space to layout all the equipment so he usually comes to the fairgrounds a week prior to the event, looks at how much space he has, then uses computer generated layouts to place rides, concession stands, games, generators and trailers to maximize space for function. The team of subcontractors, workers and ride engineers set up and test all the machines in about four days.

“We can do it in a day if we have to,” Miller said.

With more families staying home and not going out on vacations, Miller said attendance at fairs and festivals have generally increased.

“There’s something for all ages,” he said.

Life on the road is normal for the Miller family. There is new scenery every two weeks and it never gets boring. Days early and end well after midnight.

But even with the long hours, the Millers say they have some of the best jobs around.

“We are in the business of fun!"

Photos courtesy of TSR Photography