SYRACUSE, N.Y. — August 11, 2025 – One of the New York State Fair’s most iconic traditions is taking shape — quite literally — as sculptors begin work on the 57th Annual American Dairy Association North East Butter Sculpture, sponsored by Wegmans.

Over the weekend, 800 pounds of butter were delivered to the Fairgrounds in Syracuse, marking the start of an 11-day creative process by veteran artists Jim Victor and Marie Pelton, who have crafted each butter masterpiece for the past 22 years.

"This annual butter sculpture is more than a fair tradition — it's a tribute to around 2,800 hardworking dairy farmers across New York State who work tirelessly every day to produce high-quality, nutritious milk and dairy products," said John Chrisman, CEO, American Dairy Association North East. "Through this sculpture, we honor their contributions to our state's economy, communities, and proud agricultural heritage."

From Dairy Product to Public Art

‍The butter comes from O-AT-KA Milk Products in Batavia, N.Y., and is considered out of specification for retail sale — meaning it wouldn’t appear in grocery stores. Instead of going to waste, it is transformed into an intricate display that draws thousands of visitors each year to the Dairy Products Building.

While the subject of this year’s sculpture remains a closely guarded secret, past works have featured themes celebrating agriculture, community, and farm-to-table connections.

A Second Life for the Butter

‍After the sculpture’s 13-day exhibition at the Fair, the butter will travel back to Western New York, where Noblehurst Farms in Pavilion will recycle it into renewable energy. This marks the 10th anniversary of Noblehurst’s recycling partnership with the Fair.

Over the past decade, Noblehurst has converted 8,000 pounds — or four tons — of Fair butter into energy, preventing landfill waste, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and generating enough electricity to power a home for about a month.

When to See the Finished Sculpture

‍The American Dairy Association North East will unveil the completed sculpture to the media — and live on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericanDairyNE — on Tuesday, August 19, one day before the Fair officially opens.

It will remain on display for the duration of the Fair, drawing visitors eager to witness a unique blend of agricultural heritage, artistry, and sustainability.

Why It Matters

‍The butter sculpture tradition is more than a whimsical display — it’s a symbol of New York’s deep agricultural roots, a marketing tool for the state’s dairy industry, and a testament to sustainability efforts that ensure even imperfect products serve a purpose.

Originally reported by PR Newswire in Morning Star.