The Ohio State Fair’s Butter Sculptures Are a “Dairy” Cool Tradition

Ohioans have a very special and unique tradition that they get to enjoy at their state fair each year. It's the largest in the country and one that has been a favorite of many since 1903 when the first ever butter sculpture was presented at the Ohio State Fair. A butter cow and calf. How clever!

According to the Ohio State Fair website,

"In 1903, the first-ever butter cow and calf sculptures were featured at the Ohio State Fair when they were entered into a butter sculpting contest sponsored by The Ohio State University and the Dairy Processors of Ohio. The subjects of this early contest were not restricted to specific subject matter, but the life-size cow sculpted by A.T. Shelton & Company, distributors of Sunbury Co-Operative Creamery butter, became such a popular attraction that it later became a permanent attraction."

Get our free mobile app

Now, there is an exhibition every year in the Dairy Products Building that is kept at a chilly 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Can't have the any melting cows! The sculptures aren't all cows although there is always at least one. There are yearly themes and features of famous Ohioans or Ohio landmarks.

Bald eagles, Darth Vader, The Liberty Bell, a Furby, and a tribute to A Christmas Story have been just some of the interesting butter sculptures of years past. This year's theme is America's elite athletes. Here's a clip showing each work of art and what they are.

The talent involved just blows me away! Apparently the sculpture artists spend an average of 500 hours working on their pieces. Using over 2,200 pounds of butter. Don't worry, it's all golden goodness that is past expiration date so it isn't wasted.

Get our free mobile app

Follow the Ohio State Fair Facebook page for more info. The display is up and running for all to enjoy.