If you and your family love dogs, you’ll want to visit the Ohio State
Fairgrounds and Expo Center on April 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 for the 2026 Cardinal
Cluster Dog Shows.
This family friendly event features four dog shows from kennel clubs
throughout the Buckeye State and takes place inside the Lausche Building and Rhodes Center just south of 17th Avenue. More than 2,000 dogs from more
than 150 dog breeds will strut their stuff in the show rings during
one of Ohio’s largest indoor dog show clusters.
Some of the top show dogs in the country will be competing to see who
wins Best in Show each day. But the event is more than just about the
competition.
You can discover breeds you’ve never seen before, and find out more
about the breeds you love. You can also learn great tips to help care
for your canine friends. And you’ll have the chance to see puppies
just learning about the show ring, as a special event for 4- and
5-month-old puppies will be held every day.
Are there dogs or dog lovers on your shopping list? More than
two dozen vendors will offer unique gifts and products you can’t find
at big-box retailers, products you might not have known existed. From
jewelry and art, to pet care and pet health, the Mid-Ohio Cluster
offers a shopping extravaganza. Vendors’ booths are easy to find,
right outside where the show rings are located.
The Cardinal Cluster begins on Wednesday, April 15th and Thursday, April 16th with the
Marion Ohio Kennel Club dog show. The Dan Emmett Kennel Club puts on the show
on Friday, April 17th and Saturday, April 18th. The final show, on Sunday, April 19th, belongs to
the Central Ohio Kennel Club, which is Columbus’ American Kennel Club
all-breed conformation club.
Judging begins each day 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 the late afternoon/early evening.
Those driving to the Cardinal Cluster Dog Shows should take Interstate
71 to the 17th Avenue exit. Turn west on 17th Avenue, where signs will
direct you to the parking areas. Admission to the dog shows is free,
but the Ohio State Fairgrounds/Expo Center will charge for parking. More information with directions and parking can be found here.
For more information please visit the show’s Premium List