If you and your family love dogs, you’ll want to visit the Ohio State Fairgrounds and Expo Center April 15-19 for the 2026 Cardinal Cluster Dog Shows.
This annual, family friendly event features five dog shows from three local kennel clubs and takes place inside the Lausche Building just north of 17th Avenue. More than 1,000 dogs representing 150 breeds will strut their stuff in the show rings. Admission to all five days of shows is free.
The event is not just about the competition.
You can learn more about the breeds you love, discover great tips to help care for your canine friends, explore unique gifts and products for dogs and dog lovers, as well as watch some of the top dogs in the country compete to become Best in Show.
You don’t have to worry about anyone in your family going hungry when visiting the show. Food trucks from a variety of cuisines, including Schmidt’s Sausage Haus, will be in the parking lot outside the Lausche Building.
The 2026 Cardinal Cluster begins on Wednesday April 15 with the Marion Ohio Kennel Club dog show. Marion hosts a second show on Thursday April 16. Dan Emmett Kennel Club then puts on the next two shows, on Friday April 17 and Saturday April 18. The final show of the cluster, on Sunday April 19, is hosted by the Central Ohio Kennel Club.
All judging begins at 8 a.m. The winners in each breed will then compete in Group judging starting in the mid afternoon, leading to Best in Show.
In addition to the all-breed shows, the Golden Retriever Club of Columbus, Ohio will hold a specialty show on Friday April 17, and the Central Ohio Dachshund Club will hold specialty shows on Friday April 17, Saturday April 18 and Sunday April 19.
Those driving to the Cardinal Cluster Dog Shows should take Interstate 71 to the 17th Avenue exit. Turn west on 17th Avenue, where you will be directed into the driveway entrance in front of the Ohio History Connection. The Ohio State Fairgrounds/Expo Center will charge for parking, and signs will direct you to the parking areas.