The Dodge County Fair, Beaver Dam, Wis., has been hosting a very unique cow show on Saturday, during the fair, for 19 years. Now, the 20th anniversary of the Dodge County Holstein Futurity is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 20, at 12:30 p.m., and everyone is invited to watch.

“There are a few details that make this show special,” said committee chairperson Ashley Vande Zande. “The leadspeople wear formal attire; a short biography is read about each leadsperson as they enter the ring; and the cows are placed last to first, which is unlike traditional shows, so it includes more suspense.”

Jon Powers, Columbus, was on the founding futurity committee, “We modeled the Dodge County Holstein Futurity after the same event at Wisconsin State Fair. However, we wanted to feature 2-year-old cows, where the state-fair event is for 3-year-olds. There’s been at least 20 cows in our show every year, with some years more than 30. So, it’s been very successful.”

In “futurity” cow shows, the animals are entered before they’re 1 year old. Then their farmer owners show them in the futurity after they have their first calf at roughly 2 years old. “The futurity brings Holstein breeders and the general public together, but the breeders are also showcasing their genetic planning and hard work,” added Vande Zande.

Saturday’s event will have a roaring 20s theme in celebration of the anniversary milestone. “We’re recognizing the past winners and the founding committee,” said Vande Zande. “First place will get a crystal vase with a dozen red roses, just like in the early days of the futurity. Winners will also get roaring-20s-themed plaques and growlers.” In addition to the winning cows, a non-bias committee chooses a best-dressed male leadsperson winner, best-dressed female, and best-dressed group.

Chris McCullough, Juda, will judge the show; Tari Costello, Waupun, and Rae Nell Halbur, Fond du Lac, are the masters of ceremony; and Compeer Financial is the spotlight sponsor.

The Dodge County Fair continues through Aug. 21.

Written by Dori Lichty — farm wife, 4-H Mom, and full-time communicator