The All American Grooming Show 2026 is the premier educational and networking event for professional pet groomers, taking place August 13-16, 2026, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Illinois. Organised by Barkleigh Productions, the show offers world-class competitions, seminars, and a trade show floor featuring top industry suppliers.
Dates
13–16 Aug 2026
City / country
Schaumburg, United States
Venue
Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel
Time
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Companies exhibiting at All American Grooming Show 2026 include A Creative Collection, Affordable Grooming Shears, All for Groomers, Alpha Grooming Products and Andis.
Event overview
The All American Grooming Show (AAGS) 2026, hosted by Barkleigh Productions, is a comprehensive four-day event dedicated to the professional pet grooming industry. Held at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Schaumburg, Illinois, from August 13-16, 2026, the show combines high-level education, fierce competition, and a vibrant trade show.
Attendees can participate in hands-on workshops, attend seminars led by master groomers, and witness the prestigious. All American Grooming Show Competition.
The trade show floor hosts leading manufacturers and distributors of grooming tools, products, and equipment, providing an opportunity to discover new innovations and network with peers. The event is designed to inspire and elevate grooming professionals at all skill levels.
TL;DR
Visit the All American Grooming Show 2026 to advance your grooming skills through top-tier education, including seminars and hands-on workshops from master groomers. Witness and compete in prestigious grooming competitions, explore the trade show for the latest tools and products, and network with thousands of industry professionals. It is an unmatched opportunity to gain inspiration, business insights, and practical techniques to grow your grooming career or salon.
Exhibit at the All American Grooming Show 2026 to showcase your products and services directly to a dedicated, professional grooming audience. Gain direct access to salon owners, groomers, and buyers actively seeking new tools, equipment, and supplies. Benefit from high foot traffic, brand exposure, and networking opportunities with key decision-makers in the pet care industry. The show provides a focused environment to generate leads, launch new products, and reinforce your brand's presence in the grooming market.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Location & Facilities
1551 N. Thoreau Dr., 60173 Schaumburg, United States
Complimentary on-site self-parking with a weather-protected path to the hotel. Valet parking is available Friday-Sunday at $17 daily and $21 nightly with in/out privileges.
Hotel offers mobility accessible rooms, adapted baths, toilets with grab rails, accessible parking, and upper floors accessible by elevator.
No designated prayer rooms listed on the official hotel amenities page or third-party sources.
The hotel offers guest room safes and front desk safe deposit boxes. Luggage storage for early arrivals/late departures is a standard hotel service, but not explicitly listed.
The hotel offers a free shuttle service within a 3-mile radius, Monday-Friday 7am-11am and 4pm-8pm, first-come, first-served.
Food options
Sam & Harry's Steak House, RENdezvous Cafe & Winter Garden, Gather Lounge, Schaumburg Public House, Mobile Dining (A La Carte)
On-site diningParking: Complimentary on-site self-parking is available. Valet parking is offered Friday through Sunday at $17 daily and $21 nightly (with in/out privileges).
Attend
Event days & opening times
General admission
Access to all exhibit hall vendor booths
General admission
Includes access to all grooming masterclasses and demos
Ticket info
Ticket notes
Open to professional pet groomers, salon owners, and pet stylists. Badges grant exhibit floor access; grooming competition entries and educational seminars require separate registration.
How the last edition performed
Current edition
2026 · 80 exhibitors
Official website states 80+ exhibitors for the 2026 edition. No visitor count forecast published.
Growth over time
Next edition outlook
2026The 2026 edition is expected to continue its legacy with a strong focus on education, competition, and industry connection. The event will feature over 80 exhibitors, 59 seminars, and 87 hours of education, attracting thousands of pet care professionals. No major new features or format changes were announced on the official site, suggesting a stable and reliable experience.
No official changes announced for the 2026 edition; the format, dates, and venue remain consistent with previous years.
Impact
The All American Grooming Show remains a cornerstone event for the pet grooming industry. The 2025 edition brought together thousands of professionals for education, competition, and networking, reinforcing its reputation as the largest grooming show in the Midwest and a key gathering for industry innovation.
Audience quality
Attendees are highly targeted, comprising professional groomers, salon owners, mobile groomers, and other serious pet care professionals. The event is trade-only, ensuring a concentrated audience of decision-makers and practitioners actively seeking to improve their skills and discover new products.
Exhibitor outcomes
The show provides direct access to a dedicated buying audience. Exhibitors benefit from face-to-face interaction with a focused group of pet care professionals, facilitating lead generation, product launches, and brand reinforcement. With over 80 exhibitors in 2026 and a track record of thousands of attendees, the show offers a productive environment for sales and networking.
Intelligence
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Why it matters
The All American Grooming Show 2026 is a critical hub for pet care professionals to navigate the industry's rapid evolution. As pet humanization drives demand for premium, wellness-oriented services, the event provides essential education, cutting-edge product discovery, and networking opportunities to help groomers, salon owners, and retailers differentiate themselves. With a focus on professional development, creative techniques, and technology integration, the show equips attendees to capitalize on trends and remain competitive in a growing market.
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Pet Humanization Drives Premium Grooming Services
Pet owners increasingly view pets as family members, driving demand for specialized, high-quality grooming services that emphasize wellness and preventative health, rather than just aesthetics. This shift elevates grooming as a key component of pet care.
SourceFocus on Wellness and Low-Stress Grooming
There is a growing demand for grooming services that prioritize a low-stress environment for pets, especially for anxious or elderly animals. This includes quieter, more calming setups and techniques, positioning grooming as a health and wellness appointment.
SourceRise of Personalized and Artistic Grooming Styles
Social media is driving the popularity of creative and personalized grooming styles, such as the 'teddy bear' cut and 'Asian fusion' styling. This trend encourages groomers to develop advanced artistic skills and offer bespoke services.
SourceProfessionalization and Education in Grooming
There is a push within the industry towards greater professionalism, with a strong emphasis on continuous education and certification. Groomers are encouraged to attend trade shows and obtain master groomer certifications to differentiate themselves and build trust.
SourceTechnology Integration in Grooming Operations
Technology adoption, including appointment management systems, contactless payments, and customer relationship platforms, is a key differentiator. These tools help improve customer retention, generate actionable insights, and enable efficient upselling.
SourceLatest updates from across the market.
The Cutting Edge: Know the 2026 Pet Grooming Trends That Small Retailers Should Embrace
ReadThe All American Grooming Show is one of several major events serving the professional pet grooming and pet care industry in North America. Other key shows include SuperZoo (Las Vegas), Groom Expo (Pennsylvania), and Global Pet Expo (Orlando). These events provide a mix of education, competition, and trade show floors, allowing professionals to choose based on region, timing, and focus.
Spring 2026 (Feb-Apr)
Peak season for major pet industry trade shows. SuperZoo and Global Pet Expo are the largest; Intergroom is a grooming specialist event.
Summer 2026 (Aug)
Midwest-focused, dedicated grooming event with strong education and competition.
Fall 2026 (Sep-Oct)
Groom Expo is a major East Coast grooming event; Pet Fair offers international sourcing opportunities.
Event dates and positions are based on official organizer websites and industry knowledge. Dates may change; verify before planning.
Plan your trip
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport
Primary airport serving the Chicago area. No hotel shuttle service; use taxi, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), or rental car. Public transit option: CTA Blue Line to Rosemont, then Pace Bus #606 to Perimeter Dr & West Dr (total ~1h17m, $5-11).
Approximately 13 miles (22 km)
to venue
About 16-24 minutes by car
by car
Chicago Midway International Airport
Secondary airport on Chicago's southwest side, served by many low-cost carriers. Taxi/rideshare costs are higher; rental car recommended for convenience.
Approximately 30 miles (48 km)
to venue
About 45-60 minutes by car
by car
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
USD 90–140 / night
Limited-service hotels and extended-stay properties such as TownePlace Suites, SpringHill Suites, Hyatt House, and similar. Estimated August 2026 rates based on online travel agency data.
USD 140–200 / night
Full-service hotels such as DoubleTree by Hilton, Radisson, and Marriott Chicago Schaumburg. Some properties offer complimentary area shuttles.
USD 200–300 / night
Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel – directly connected to the convention center. Offers full amenities, multiple on-site restaurants, indoor pool, and fitness center. Rates shown are estimates; official event room block rates may differ.
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Widely available in Schaumburg. From O'Hare (ORD) to the venue costs $65–80 and takes 16–24 minutes.
Taxi
Available at airport taxi stands and can be hailed at major hotels. Metered fares apply.
Pace Bus (Public Transit)
Connects to the CTA Blue Line at Rosemont for service to O'Hare and downtown Chicago. Total trip from ORD via transit takes approximately 1 hour 17 minutes and costs $5–11 combined.
Hotel Complimentary Shuttle
Many area hotels offer free shuttles to the convention center and nearby attractions. The Renaissance Schaumburg offers a shuttle Monday–Friday 7am–11am and 4pm–8pm, first-come, first-served. Check with your hotel for availability and schedule.
Metra Train
Connects Schaumburg to downtown Chicago's Ogilvie Transportation Center. Weekend service is limited; a short taxi/rideshare is needed from the Schaumburg station to the convention center.
Rental Car
Provides maximum flexibility for exploring Schaumburg and the Chicago area. Free parking is available at the venue and most hotels. Rental car desks are located at both ORD and MDW airports.
Plan your trip
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
| Type | Who needs it | Fee | Processing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| B-1 Business Visitor Visa | Most foreign nationals traveling to the U.S. for business purposes who are not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program. | $185.00 | Varies widely; typically several weeks to months. Apply well in advance. | |
| B-2 Tourist Visitor Visa | Foreign nationals traveling for tourism, vacation, or visiting family. | $185.00 | Varies widely; typically several weeks to months. Apply well in advance. | |
| Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) | Citizens of 40 participating countries traveling for 90 days or less for business or tourism. | $21.00 | 72 hours (usually immediate) |
Citizens of Canada, Bermuda, and other specific countries may be exempt from visa requirements for short-term business visits under the Visa Waiver Program. The U.S. State Department maintains an official list of VWP countries.
ATA Carnets are not used for the U.S. Temporary importation of commercial samples, display equipment, or exhibition materials may require a formal Customs entry and bond. Carnets are generally not accepted, but the U.S. is a party to some temporary importation agreements. Consult U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for specific requirements.
Official visa pageWeather
Schaumburg in mid-August is typically warm and humid, with average highs around 82°F (28°C) and lows near 63°F (17°C). Afternoon thunderstorms are common. The venue is air-conditioned; pack layers for comfort indoors.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
The venue is directly connected to the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel. Metra's Union Pacific Northwest Line connects Schaumburg to downtown Chicago's Ogilvie Transportation Center; the Schaumburg station is a short taxi/rideshare from the venue. Local Pace buses cover the town center, including the free Woodfield Trolley that runs between Woodfield Mall, hotels, and nearby destinations. Rental cars or rideshare services are the most flexible options for getting around the Schaumburg area.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Schaumburg: A Suburban Hub with Global Flavor
Schaumburg is a major corporate and retail center 30 miles northwest of Chicago, known as the 'Golden Corridor' due to its concentration of businesses. Despite its commercial focus, it offers serene natural spaces like Spring Valley Nature Center and Busse Woods Forest Preserve. The suburb has a significant Asian American population (24%), making it excellent for diverse Asian cuisine.
Dining Highlights
Schaumburg offers a rich dining scene. For local favorites, try deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's or a Chicago-style hot dog. The area is known for Asian cuisine—including Chinese, Korean BBQ, and Japanese hot pot. Newer spots include Hopscotch, a British pub-themed venue that opened in May 2026, and the classic Walker Bros. Pancake House, a breakfast institution.
Shopping and Entertainment
Woodfield Mall is the largest shopping center in Illinois, with over 300 stores, dining, and entertainment options. Across the street, The Streets of Woodfield offers open-air shopping and a movie theater. Family attractions include Legoland Discovery Center, Medieval Times, and Schaumburg Boomers minor league baseball.
Practical guides
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Destination: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
ORD is a major international hub with direct flights from most US cities and many international destinations. Book early for best rates, especially for mid-August travel. MDW is a secondary option served by low-cost carriers.
International attendees must check U.S. entry requirements. Many nationalities need a B-1 Business Visa, while others may be eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA). Apply at least 3-6 months in advance. The event organizers at Barkleigh Productions may provide a visa invitation letter to support your application; contact info@barkleigh.com for assistance.
Processing: Varies by nationality and visa type; B-1/B-2 processing can take several weeks to months. ESTA processing is typically within 72 hours.
The B-1 visa application requires a valid passport, photo, completed DS-160 form, and an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate. A letter of invitation from the event organizer is highly recommended to prove the purpose of the visit. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
OfficialFind a stay near the venue with options for every budget.
Areas to stay
Schaumburg / Woodfield Mall area · Near the convention center (host hotel) · Hotels along I-90 corridor
Budget / 3-star
$90–$140 / night
Mid-range / 3.5-4 star
$140–$200 / night
Premium / 4-star (Host Hotel)
$200–$300 / night
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Chicago O'Hare (ORD) is the primary airport, ~13 miles away. Taxi/rideshare costs $65–80 and takes 16–24 minutes. Public transit via CTA Blue Line to Rosemont, then Pace Bus #606 takes ~1h17m and costs $5–11. Some hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles (e.g., Radisson Schaumburg offers ORD shuttle with 24-hour notice). Chicago Midway (MDW) is ~30 miles away; taxi/rideshare takes 45–60 minutes.
Hotel → venue: Many hotels near Woodfield Mall are within a short drive (5–10 minutes) of the convention center. Some properties offer complimentary shuttles within a 3–5 mile radius, including to the convention center (check with your hotel). The Renaissance hotel is directly connected to the convention center.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate widely in Schaumburg. A ride from Woodfield Mall hotels to the convention center costs approximately $10–15. Rides from ORD to the venue cost $65–80.
Public transit: Pace bus service covers the Schaumburg area, including the free Woodfield Trolley that connects the mall, hotels, and the convention center area. Metra's Union Pacific Northwest Line connects Schaumburg station to downtown Chicago (limited weekend service).
Parking: The Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel offers complimentary on-site self-parking with a covered walkway to the convention center. Valet parking is available Friday–Sunday at $17 daily and $21 nightly. Most area hotels provide free self-parking for guests.
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: August
Temperature: Highs around 82°F (28°C), lows around 63°F (17°C)
Seasonality: Afternoon thunderstorms are common; humidity is high.
Packing: Pack light, breathable clothing for warm days, but bring a jacket or sweater for air-conditioned indoor spaces. An umbrella or rain jacket is recommended for potential afternoon showers. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for the trade show floor.
Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.
Add side trips
Default day plan
Plan your trip
Best day to visit: Thursday (August 13) or Friday (August 14)
Thursday is the pre-show day for early arrivals to pick up badges and attend pre-conference workshops. Friday and Saturday are the busiest days with full trade show hours, maximum exhibitor presence, and peak networking opportunities. Sunday is the final half-day with reduced hours (10am–4pm) and may be less crowded, suitable for last-minute booth visits and follow-ups.
Register for the event and book booth space (if exhibiting) — Register early to secure the best rates and booth locations. Check official website for registration deadlines.
Book travel (flights and hotel) and reserve rental car if needed — Book flights into Chicago O'Hare (ORD) – the primary airport. Secure hotel accommodations; consider host hotel Renaissance Schaumburg for convenience.
Review event schedule and plan your itinerary — Select seminars, workshops, and competition events to attend. Prioritize sessions that align with your learning goals.
Prepare business cards, promotional materials, and follow-up strategy — Ensure you have ample business cards. Exhibitors should prepare booth materials, giveaways, and lead capture system. Plan a 48-hour follow-up SLA for leads.
Check weather forecast and pack appropriate clothing — August in Schaumburg is warm and humid (highs ~82°F) with afternoon thunderstorms. Pack layers and comfortable walking shoes.
Confirm travel arrangements and download event app if available — Verify flight times, hotel check-in, and car rental. Check if the event offers a mobile app for schedules and networking.
Pre-show: Pick up badge, attend early seminars or workshops (check schedule for start times).
Renaissance Schaumburg Convention CenterTrade show floor opens. Visit 80+ exhibitors. Attend morning seminars. Watch grooming competitions.
Exhibition Halls / Seminar RoomsFull day of education and networking. Attend key sessions, explore booths, and observe competition finals.
Exhibition Halls / Seminar RoomsFinal trade show hours. Last chance to connect with exhibitors, attend final seminars, and collect contacts. Show closes at 4pm.
Exhibition Halls / Seminar RoomsWoodfield Mall
Shopping
2.5 km (3 min drive)
Illinois' largest mall with over 300 stores, dining, and entertainment options.
Legoland Discovery Center
Family Entertainment
2.4 km (7 min drive)
Indoor Lego-themed attraction with rides, play areas, and 4D cinema.
Spring Valley Nature Center
Outdoor/Nature
Approx 6 km (10 min drive)
135-acre refuge with hiking trails, turtle pond, heritage farm, and observation tower.
Busse Woods Forest Preserve
Outdoor/Nature
Adjacent to Schaumburg
3,500-acre preserve with 13 miles of paved trails, fishing, boating, and elk herd viewing.
Topgolf Schaumburg
Entertainment
1.7 km (19 min walk)
High-tech driving range with food and drinks; popular for team-building.
Medieval Times
Dinner Theater
Several km (short drive)
Immersive dinner show with jousting knights and horsemanship.
Gather Bar (within venue)
On-site bar
Located inside the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel; serves lunch and dinner, offers American cuisine and drinks.
Woodfield Mall Food Court
Dining / Social
Large variety of fast-casual and sit-down options; casual networking over meals.
The Streets of Woodfield
Dining / Entertainment
Open-air lifestyle center with restaurants, bars, and a movie theater; ideal for group dinners.
Hopscotch – British Pub
Restaurant / Bar
New British pub-themed venue in Town Square (opened May 2026) with golf simulators, gaming room, and diverse menu.
Budget
Official 2026 exhibitor pricing not published on the event website. Third-party sources suggest booth costs typically range under $5,000 and exhibitor count around 80+.
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
Booth Space
exhibitor · Standard
USD 3000–5000 / per booth
Hotel (Budget)
both · Budget
USD 90–140 / per night
Hotel (Mid-Range)
both · Mid
USD 140–200 / per night
Hotel (Premium/Host)
both · Premium
USD 200–300 / per night
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Booth Space | exhibitor | Standard | USD 3000–5000 / per booth | estimate | |
| Hotel (Budget) | both | Budget | USD 90–140 / per night | estimate | |
| Hotel (Mid-Range) | both | Mid | USD 140–200 / per night | estimate | |
| Hotel (Premium/Host) | both | Premium | USD 200–300 / per night | estimate |
Decision
Based on your goals, budget, and readiness, here’s how the All American Grooming Show 2026 aligns with your needs.
QUESTION 1 OF 8
What is your primary role in the pet grooming industry?
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
You prioritize hands-on learning, competition observation, and direct product interaction. You are looking to upgrade your skills, earn CE credits, or scope out the market before making significant buying decisions.
Best for
Professional groomers, salon owners, mobile groomers, students, and pet care professionals seeking education, skill development, and product discovery.
Min. budget
$600.00
Timeline
Register at least 2–3 weeks in advance; book travel and hotel as early as possible for best rates.
Risks
Limited time on the trade show floor to connect with all exhibitors
Popular seminars may fill up quickly
Travel and accommodation costs increase closer to the event
exhibit
You have a new product to launch, a strong sales team to engage visitors, and a clear ROI plan. You want direct feedback from buyers and to build brand recognition in the Midwest grooming market.
Best for
Pet product manufacturers, distributors, grooming tool suppliers, salon equipment vendors, and service providers targeting professional groomers and salon owners.
Min. budget
$3,500.00
Timeline
Book booth space at least 3–6 months in advance; plan shipping, staff, and marketing collateral 60–90 days out.
Risks
Higher upfront cost and logistics overhead
Need to deliver strong booth engagement to justify investment
Lead follow-up requires post-show discipline
skip
You are just starting out and can invest in online learning instead. You already have a strong network and supplier base, or you plan to attend a competing event that better suits your timing or location.
Best for
Professionals on a tight budget, very new to the industry, or those who are already well-connected and primarily source through existing channels.
Timeline
Not applicable
Risks
Missing out on hands-on product demos and networking with peers
Forgoing potential leads or educational opportunities that could accelerate growth
Losing a year of market visibility against competitors
FAQs & glossary
Frequently asked
Glossary
Trust footer
25
References
19
Publishers
0
Date checked
Tradeshowz.com
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.
