By Blake Jackson
The 2024 Great New York State Fair will feature a full day of events and educational activities dedicated to celebrating New York's diverse and high-quality dairy industry.
Dairy Day, now in its 47th year, offers fairgoers the opportunity to learn about the state's largest agricultural sector, recognize top dairy farmers and processors, and sample delicious New York dairy products.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball highlighted the significance of Dairy Day, stating, "“What better way to highlight our world class dairy industry and bring fairgoers a little closer to the dairy community than a full slate of events and educational outreach at The Great New York State Fair. Dairy Day gives us all the perfect opportunity to sample New York’s finest milk, ice cream, cheese, and so much more, and learn more about how our milk is produced and processed, from farm to table. We hope fairgoers will join us for a fantastic day at the Fair on Dairy Day and help us raise a glass of milk in honor of this incredible industry.”
Dairy Day kicks off with the Dairy Day Breakfast, where honorees receive the Dairy of Distinction Awards, PRO-DAIRY Service Awards, and New York State Dairy Products Competition winners are announced.
Fairgoers can then view a slideshow presentation of the competition winners in the Dairy Products Building.
At 10:30 a.m., the Undeniably Dairy Shake-Off Milkshake Contest will take place at the Chevy Court Pavilion, where media teams compete to create the best milkshake. Commissioner Ball will serve as a judge.
The Fair's Butter Sculpture, created by Jim Victor and Marie Pelton, will be on display. This year's theme, "Dairy: Good for you. Good for the Planet," showcases the environmental benefits of dairy farming.
The Dairy Cow Birthing Center, now in its 11th year, offers visitors the opportunity to witness live births of baby cows, learn about the dairy industry, and pet calves. The center also features educational exhibits and a live web stream.
The Dairy Cattle Barn, where dairy cattle are housed and milked, will be open to visitors. Fairgoers can learn about the process of milk production and observe cows being milked.
American Dairy Association North East and the New York Animal Agriculture Coalition are proud to participate in Dairy Day. The coalition will showcase the dairy industry through the Mobile Dairy Experience and the Dairy Cow Birthing Center.
Cornell Cooperative Extension is operating the Milk Bar, providing educational opportunities for youth and supporting the dairy industry.
Upstate Niagara Cooperative is a key sponsor of the butter sculpture and the Milk Bar, demonstrating their commitment to quality and local dairy products.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: New York, Livestock, Dairy Cattle