Iowa State Fair gives a sneak peek of the 2024 butter cow

The Butter Cow, a signature attraction at the Iowa State Fair, which runs from August 8 to 18, involves significant effort each year.

Each Butter Cow sculpture uses between 400 and 600 pounds of butter and requires three people working 40-hour weeks to complete. The process begins with forming the general shape and muscle structure over the first three days, followed by detailed work on veins and texture.

Sarah Pratt, the lead butter sculptor, describes the project to WHO13 as a cherished family tradition that she shares with her two daughters. “If you’re going to be known for something, it might as well be something fun, whimsical, and beloved,” Pratt said. “While I may be more of an introvert, I enjoy discussing and representing this iconic symbol of Iowa.”