Every fall, the All American Quarter Horse Congress takes over Columbus, Ohio, transforming the Ohio Expo Center into the heart of the quarter horse world. As the largest horse show in the world, it has over 20,000 entries and more than 500,000 attendees, generating an impressive $426 million in economic impact for the region. This year’s event is just around the corner, September 27 – October 26, and promises world-class competition, recreational activities, education, and engagement of the next generation of participants and industry leaders.
September 27 – October 26, 2025
Ohio Expo Center
717 East 17th Avenue. Columbus, Ohio 43211
History
The idea for what would become the All American Quarter Horse Congress was born in May 1966 when Blair Folck, owner of National Equine Sales and past president of the Ohio Quarter Horse Association (OQHA), shared his enthusiasm for the massive Charolais Cattle Congress he’d attended in St. Louis. Inspired, he proposed adapting that model for American Quarter Horses during an OQHA board meeting.
Despite initial excitement, the plan faced skepticism. OQHA had only about $3,500 in its treasury and had just funded a typewriter through donations. After six months of discussion, the association set a clear condition in early 1967: they would only proceed if $10,000 in funding was secured by May 1, 1967. Thanks to efforts from Dr. W.P. “Pete” Drake (OQHA president for the first three Congress shows) and Folck, not only was the goal met, but exceeded – prompting the launch of the inaugural event November 3-5, 196,7 at the Ohio State Fairgrounds in Columbus, Ohio. Registration was $20 for three days, $15 for Saturday and Sunday and $5 for Sunday only.
More than 50 years later, the Congress is still a hit within the industry!
A Packed Schedule of Competition and Shopping
Each day is packed with exciting equine events, so make sure you check out the full schedule! While you’re in town, stop by the trade show. With more than 200 commercial exhibit spaces over 20 acres of indoor and outdoor areas, this truly is a one-stop shopping destination. Commercial exhibitors offer everything from show clothing to tack to towing vehicles and trailers to equine art, jewelry, furniture, and much more!
“This is such an amazing event. Hundreds of people attend and they don’t skip the shopping!”
Britt Bailey
Gotta B Country Radio
Congress NRHA Freestyle Reining
Often compared to a figure skater’s performance, the Freestyle Reining competition combines the athletics and finesse of reining moves with the melodies of popular music in one of the Congress’ most popular, sell-out events. Competitors (and their mounts) often wear costumes and may include props and actors in their performances. Held this year on Friday, October 3 at 7:00pm, I cannot recommend this event enough – it’s one that anyone can enjoy both in-person and online.
Last year’s open winners, Keith Ceddia and Xtra Dun Step, are no strangers to winning the Championship title at Congress in the Open Freestyle Reining. Will the three-time consecutive winners bring in another title this year? Not to mention Xtra Dun Step has won four years in a row! Now THAT is some tough competition.
“He’s just been a solid competitor. The environment in this class doesn’t faze him, and he’s got a good look. He’s got the big maneuvers, and he just enjoys doing his job,” says Ceddia.
Congress PBR
The All American Quarter Horse Congress will once again host a PBR Challenger Series event. Every seat in the Coliseum puts you right on top of the action, where the world’s toughest bull riders square off against the world’s best bulls for $20,000 in cash.
The Congress PBR is one of the last events before the PBR Challenger Series Championship, held in Las Vegas. The Columbus event will showcase some of the nation’s top bull riders; watch them battle it out for an 8 second ride on the back of a fierce, unrelenting, rank bucking bull!
There’s a Place For You: Join AQHA
Joining the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is a great way to get more connected with the Quarter Horse world – whether you’re into showing, breeding, riding, or just learning more about the breed. Membership gives you access to helpful tools, event info, and a nationwide network of people who share your interests. One of the biggest highlights of being part of AQHA is getting involved with events like the All American Quarter Horse Congress. It’s the largest Quarter Horse show out there, and whether you’re competing or just going to watch, it’s a great place to see top-level horses, meet other members, and really experience what the AQHA community is all about.
Whether it’s your first time attending or a tradition you return to each year, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting Congress events yet – and we can’t wait to see you there!
About the Author:
CLN Community & Event Sponsor
