By Andi Anderson
The Ohio State Fair is offering visitors a unique opportunity to celebrate America’s 250th birthday while learning about the importance of dairy farming and agriculture. A major attraction at the fair is the iconic Butter Cow Display, located in the newly renovated Dairy Building. This year’s exhibit features the traditional butter cow and calf alongside famous American symbols.
Organized with support from the American Dairy Association Mideast, the event combines education, entertainment, and agricultural awareness.
Visitors can view sculptures of a bald eagle, the Statue of Liberty, American and Ohio flags, and an America 250 sign. The display was created using 2,100 pounds of butter donated by Dairy Farmers of America and serves as a tribute to the nation’s history and agricultural heritage.
The fair also recognizes excellence in dairy production through the 2026 Ohio State Fair Cheese Contest. Coordinated by the American Dairy Association Mideast and held at Miceli Dairy Products in Cleveland, the competition highlights the skills of cheesemakers across the state.
This year, Pearl Valley Cheese of Fresno earned the Grand Champion title for its Swiss cheese. Urban Stead Cheese of Cincinnati received the Reserve Champion award for its Nati Gouda. The winning cheeses reflect the quality and craftsmanship of Ohio’s dairy industry.
As part of a long-standing tradition, the Grand Champion cheese is auctioned during the Ohio State Fair Sale of Champions, with proceeds supporting junior fair dairy exhibitors.
Visitors can also enjoy a variety of dairy products at the Dairy Building and the Dairy Counter located inside the Taste of Ohio Cafe in the Ohio Agriculture Center. Ice cream, milkshakes, and other dairy treats are available throughout the fair.
A special highlight is "Star Spangled Swirl," an exclusive Ohio State Fair flavor created by Velvet Ice Cream. Inspired by the classic rocket pop, it combines cherry, lime, and blue raspberry flavors.
Another featured attraction is the ImAGine Ag exhibit in the Ohio Agriculture Center. Developed through partnerships with agricultural organizations, the exhibit includes interactive displays focused on farming, food production, technology, animal care, and innovation.
Through these attractions, the Ohio State Fair celebrates agriculture, dairy excellence, and America’s 250th anniversary while providing educational experiences for visitors of all ages.
Photo Credit: istock
Categories: Ohio, Education