Reflecting the Illinois State Fair’s theme of “It’s Showtime!” the Butter Cow got an unveiling in the Dairy Building on Wednesday with a special guest: a little girl pulling a seven-scoop ice cream cone out of her magician’s hat.
This is the eighth time Sarah Pratt of West Des Moines, Iowa, has sculpted the 800-pound bovine made from recycled and unsalted butter.
“(The unveiling) truly embarks the start of the Illinois State Fair,” said Jerry Costello II, Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. “It is absolutely iconic in the state of Illinois.”
The butter is slathered over a frame of wire and wood. The cow and its human playmate rotate inside a refrigerated display case over the course of the fair, Aug. 8-18. […]
As in years past, 13 hearts have been hidden between the two displays to signify the 13 essential nutrients found naturally in milk.
The Illinois dignitaries unveiled the butter cow – the 103rd in the state’s history, according to Pritzker, in the Dairy Building on the fairgrounds. […]
The fair opens Thursday and will run through Sunday, Aug. 18.
This year’s new attractions include a daily circus at Happy Hollow and a ninja obstacle course called the Neutron Ninja Warrior Experience outside the Colosseum. For families with young children, there will be a Fairytales on Ice show at the Orr Building the last weekend of the fair.
An old favorite is returning this year as well: A free tram service will run all eleven days of the fair to help guests get around.
* More…
* Illinois Times | A new and improved Illinois State Fair: The $31.5 million state-funded Coliseum renovation is the most prominent of the numerous construction projects totaling $85.3 million that will improve the fair experience, according to Illinois Department of Agriculture director Jerry Costello.
* Center Square | Illinois commodity groups to address agricultural issues during state fair: “Ag Day is a really special day for us because we get the opportunity to interact with people who aren’t living on the farm and are really interested in learning more about food production and the economic impact of farming in Illinois,” said Lindsey Croke, director of Communications with the Illinois Corn Growers Association.
- Give Us Barabbas - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 12:37 pm:
Meh. The cow seems less detailed than in previous years. I think Sarah put more effort into the figure. I would rather the display be more cow- centric. Still, it’s a tradition I enjoy.
I bought my partner two tickets to Miranda Lambert, and she is coordinating a women’s gathering of cousins. Did I mention I get the entire weekend off?
Thanks to the people who get the talents on all the stages. We do well here in that area, including the smaller stages and venues.
- Original Rambler - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 1:54 pm:
Our butter cow is very nice but it’s no Caitlin Clarke. (Actually ours is “butter” because it has ice cream.)
- Flyin'Elvis'-Utah Chapter - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 9:03 am:
I’ve been all over this country.
I love this state, warts and all.
If all you want to do is rag on it, get out.
- Huh? - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 9:31 am:
Now I am hungry for a toasted english muffin swimming in butter.
- Dog Lover - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 10:11 am:
The butter cow is always cool.
- walker - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 12:01 pm:
beautiful
- Give Us Barabbas - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 12:37 pm:
Meh. The cow seems less detailed than in previous years. I think Sarah put more effort into the figure. I would rather the display be more cow- centric. Still, it’s a tradition I enjoy.
- H-W - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 1:10 pm:
I bought my partner two tickets to Miranda Lambert, and she is coordinating a women’s gathering of cousins. Did I mention I get the entire weekend off?
Thanks to the people who get the talents on all the stages. We do well here in that area, including the smaller stages and venues.
- Original Rambler - Thursday, Aug 8, 24 @ 1:54 pm:
Our butter cow is very nice but it’s no Caitlin Clarke. (Actually ours is “butter” because it has ice cream.)
https://www.cbssports.com/womens-college-basketball/news/look-butter-sculpture-of-caitlin-clark-goes-on-display-at-iowa-state-fair/