The 2026 Pennsylvania Farm Show featured a striking 1,000-pound butter sculpture, unveiled by Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding on January 8, 2026. This year’s artwork, titled “A Toast to Our Nation’s 250th Anniversary: Inspired by Founders. Grown by Farmers,” showcases the intertwined history of the United States and its agricultural evolution.
This butter sculpture celebrates a significant milestone—the 250th anniversary of the United States. It pays homage to Pennsylvania’s crucial role in the nation’s founding as well as the development of American agriculture. Set in the historic context of 1776 Philadelphia, the sculpture depicts Benjamin Franklin and other Founding Fathers during the signing of the Declaration of Independence, complete with a symbolic toast featuring milk.
The design incorporates various patriotic elements, such as the Liberty Bell and a tribute to Betsy Ross, highlighting the spirit of the semi-quincentennial celebration. Red, white, and blue accents further enhance its national significance. Meanwhile, the base of the sculpture emphasizes Pennsylvania’s rich agricultural heritage, a theme that resonates throughout the state’s history.
The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, along with the American Dairy Association North East and the Pennsylvania Dairy Promotion Program, sponsored the creation of this impressive piece. “The butter sculpture is a people-pleasing favorite every year at the Pennsylvania Farm Show,” Redding remarked during the unveiling.
This annual tradition not only showcases artistic talent but also serves to educate visitors about the state’s agricultural contributions and its integral role in shaping the nation. The butter sculpture, a beloved attraction at the Farm Show, invites attendees to reflect on how closely linked agriculture and American history are.
As the nation prepares for its 250th anniversary, this year’s butter sculpture stands as a visual representation of the past while reminding us of agriculture’s ongoing importance to the economy and culture of the United States. The Pennsylvania Farm Show continues to be a platform for celebrating the state’s agricultural legacy, drawing crowds eager to see the art and participate in the festivities.
With its unique blend of history and artistry, the butter sculpture serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Founders and the farmers who continue to shape America’s future.
