NationalchampionshipFeatured Event

AQHA World Championship Show

The world's largest single-breed horse show, featuring over 20,000 entries across all Quarter Horse disciplines.

Dates
October 1 - October 25
2026
Location
Columbus
Ohio
Duration
25 days
Attendance
20,000+ entries, 650,000+ visitors

About Quarter Horse Congress

The All American Quarter Horse Congress is the world's largest single-breed horse show, drawing over 20,000 entries annually to the Ohio Expo Center. This three-week extravaganza showcases the incredible versatility of the American Quarter Horse across more than 170 classes. From halter to reining, western pleasure to hunter under saddle, the Congress crowns champions in every discipline. The event also features one of the largest equine trade shows in the world.

Breed Focus

American Quarter Horse

History

The Congress began in 1967 with just 1,889 entries. It has grown exponentially to become the largest horse show in the world, now attracting exhibitors from all 50 states and numerous countries. The show is produced by the Ohio Quarter Horse Association and has become an economic powerhouse for Columbus.

Event Highlights

Congress Champion crownings
Nutrena Open and Amateur finals
Youth championships
Trade show with 400+ vendors
Freestyle reining
Ranch horse versatility

Pricing & Entry Fees

Entry Fees

$50-$200 per class

Stall Fees

$300-$500

Spectator Tickets

$10-$20

VIP Packages

$75-$200

AQHA membership required

Facilities & Amenities

6 indoor show arenas
Outdoor warm-up areas
4,500+ stalls
Massive trade show buildings
Multiple food courts

Requirements to Compete

  • 1
    AQHA membership
  • 2
    Horse registration with AQHA
  • 3
    Health certificates
  • 4
    Coggins test

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the AQHA World Championship Show 2026?

The AQHA World Championship Show 2026 runs from October 1 to October 25, 2026. The event lasts 25 days.

Where is the AQHA World Championship Show held?

The AQHA World Championship Show is held at Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds in Columbus, Ohio at 717 E 17th Avenue.

How much does it cost to enter the AQHA World Championship Show?

Entry fees for the AQHA World Championship Show range from $50-$200 per class. Stall fees are typically $300-$500. AQHA membership required

What disciplines are featured at the AQHA World Championship Show?

The AQHA World Championship Show features competition in Halter, Western Pleasure, Hunter Under Saddle, Reining, Trail, Western Riding, Cutting, Barrel Racing, Working Cow Horse. The event focuses on American Quarter Horse horses.

How can I watch the AQHA World Championship Show?

Spectator tickets for the AQHA World Championship Show are $10-$20. VIP packages are available for $75-$200. Visit https://quarterhorsecongress.com for ticket information.

What are the highlights of the AQHA World Championship Show?

Key highlights of the AQHA World Championship Show include: Congress Champion crownings, Nutrena Open and Amateur finals, Youth championships, Trade show with 400+ vendors.

Where should I stay for the AQHA World Championship Show?

Accommodation options near the AQHA World Championship Show include: Columbus downtown hotels, Airport area lodging, Expo Center proximity hotels, Extended stay options.

What are the requirements to compete at the AQHA World Championship Show?

Requirements to compete at the AQHA World Championship Show include: AQHA membership, Horse registration with AQHA, Health certificates, Coggins test.

Location

Ohio Expo Center & State Fairgrounds

717 E 17th Avenue

Columbus, Ohio

United States

Organizer

Ohio Quarter Horse Association

Visit Website

Where to Stay

  • Columbus downtown hotels
  • Airport area lodging
  • Expo Center proximity hotels
  • Extended stay options

Awards & Prizes

  • Congress Championship trophies
  • Custom buckles and awards
  • Prize money exceeds $4 million
  • Breeder awards

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