Events

3rd Annual Batesminster Dog Show
3rd Annual Batesminster Dog Show

When
May 24th, 2026
11:30am - 4:00pm
Where
6624 Plank RoadBatesvilleVA22924

The dogs are taking over Batesville again… and honestly, the humans are just there for support staff.

The 3rd Annual Batesminster Dog Show returns Sunday, May 24th to Page’s Field, right across from The Batesville Market, with check-in beginning at 11:30 AM. Online ticket sales end at 11 that morning, and with only 50 entries available, organizers say early registration is definitely the way to go.

Inspired by the cult-favorite movie Best in Show, Batesminster is a hilarious and heartwarming community fundraiser celebrating dogs of every shape, size, and personality. We’re talking categories like Best Kisser, Best Costume, Best Trick, Best Look-A-Like, Most Enthusiastic Human, and of course… Best in Show.

Each registration includes one dog and one human handler. Tickets are 20 dollars in advance, or 25 dollars day-of if spots are still available. Spectators, though, are completely free, so even if your dog’s greatest talent is licking windows and refusing commands, you can still come enjoy the fun.

The event will also feature live music from The Pollocks Trio, raffle prizes, food, puppy pools, water stations, and a whole field full of happy chaos wagging its tail under the Blue Ridge sky. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs, pop-up tents, and their loudest cheering voices.

And beyond the fun, this event supports two incredible local nonprofits: Caring For Creatures Animal Sanctuary and the Houses of Wood & Straw Project, both helping rescue, rehabilitate, and care for dogs in need across Central Virginia.

The 3rd Annual Batesminster Dog Show happens Sunday, May 24th in Batesville, with a rain date of Monday, May 25th.

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