A sneak peek into the Iowa State Fair’s Butter Cow

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Butter Cow is a staple to the Iowa State Fair and a lot of work goes into the sculptor.

Between 400 and 600 pounds of butter goes into the butter cow every year. It takes three people working 40 hours each to complete the butter cow. During the first three days, they make the cow’s general shape and muscle structure. Then, they go in on the details, adding veins and texture.

Apart from the iconic cow, this year, there will also be a sky glider scene to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the main sky glider. Plus, three nighttime personalities will also be sculpted, including Corning native Johnny Carson, Des Moines native and Tonight Show announcer Steve Higgins, and current Tonight Show host Jimmy Falon.

Sarah Pratt is the lead butter sculptor. She said it’s a family activity that she gets to do every year with her two daughters.

“If you’re going to be known for something, it might as well be known for something fun and whimsical and amazing that everyone loves. So, while I may be more of an introvert, I love just being able to talk about it and being able to represent that icon of Iowa,” said Pratt.

Fairgoers can see Pratt and her daughters in action working on the final touches of the sculptures during the first two days of the fair.

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