Sheepdog Trials and Dog Festival at Historic Rural Hill 2024

Historic Rural Hill, Huntersville, NC

The Sheepdog Trials and Dog Festival at Historic Rural Hill is an annual event that showcases the incredible skill and intelligence of sheepdogs as they compete in a variety of challenges. As well as having a variety of pet vendors and dog adoptions. The event is scheduled to take place on November 2nd and 3rd, 2024, and promises to be an exciting and entertaining weekend for all ages.

The Sheepdog Trials feature a series of competitive events designed to test the dogs’ herding abilities, obedience, and agility. Spectators can expect to see the dogs expertly maneuvering through a series of obstacles, responding to their handlers’ commands with precision and speed.

In addition to the trials themselves, the event will also feature a variety of other activities and attractions, including food and drink vendors, merchant vendors, pet adoptions, and demonstrations by skilled dog trainers. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the dogs and their handlers, learn about the history and training of sheepdogs.

Guess what? Huntersville is hosting its very first-ever Next Top Dog Show! We’ve got categories like Fluffiest Coat, Curliest Tail, Silliest Name, and Best Trick. It’s going to be a blast! Each dog can register for just $5. The contest starts at 2 pm, so make sure to come early and grab your ticket at the ticket tent as you enter. Can’t wait to see all the adorable dogs and their owners!

Free access to the Amazing Maize Maze is included!

The sheepdog trial is a rain or shine event. No refunds will be allowed for inclement weather.

Tickets are available online as well as on site both days. This event will not sell out.


Celebrating more than 250 years in history…Rural Hill is the former homestead of Major John and Violet Davidson. The 265-acre site is maintained and promoted by Historic Rural Hill Inc. and features annual events such as the Loch Norman Highland Games, the Rural Hill Amazing Maize Maze, the Rural Hill Sheepdog Trials, and the NC Brewers and Music Festival. Historic Rural Hill Inc. is a non-profit organization supported through membership and donations and with proceeds from its events utilized for the preservation of Historic Rural Hill and its education efforts. For more information on events or for financial support accepted securely online, please visit www.ruralhill.net.