COLUMBUS, Ohio (July 8, 2024) – Amidst the summer heat, a beloved tradition is taking shape at the Ohio State Fairgrounds as artists prepare for the annual butter sculpture unveiling. Over a ton of butter has arrived, signaling the start of sculpting activities for the 2024 exhibit, including the iconic butter cow and calf, alongside other surprise sculptures.
The meticulous process begins with artisans constructing sturdy wooden and steel frames to support the weight of the butter. From hefty 55-pound blocks, they carefully slice and layer the butter onto the frames, working in a chilled 46-degree environment to ensure the butter remains solid yet malleable. Hours of sculpting and smoothing follow, culminating in the addition of intricate details that bring each sculpture to life.
2023 sculpture below
Organized by the American Dairy Association Mideast, Ohio’s dairy farmers contribute annually to this non-political and universally appealing display. Each year, a new theme is chosen to celebrate Ohio’s heritage and innovation. Previous themes have featured renowned Ohio inventors and their groundbreaking contributions, such as Thomas Edison’s light bulb and Garrett Morgan’s traffic signal.
The butter sculpture tradition, dating back over 60 years, attracts over 500,000 visitors to the Ohio State Fair annually. The theme remains a closely guarded secret until the fair’s opening day, enhancing anticipation and excitement among attendees.
Located in the Dairy Products Building at the Ohio Expo Center, the butter sculptures are showcased alongside a variety of dairy products from local farms, including ice cream, milkshakes, and cheese sandwiches. The fair, running from July 24th to August 4th, promises a blend of agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and culinary delights.
The Dairy Products Building and its butter sculpture exhibit are proudly sponsored by the American Dairy Association Mideast, supporting Ohio’s dairy industry and promoting dairy products statewide. For more details about the fair and its attractions, visit www.drink-milk.com.
As artists continue to work in secrecy on this year’s butter sculptures, anticipation mounts for yet another memorable display of creativity and dairy craftsmanship at the Ohio State Fair.
