Snuggle a Cow at the 2026 Herkimer County Fair

You Can Snuggle a Mini Highland Cow at the Herkimer County Fair This Year

There are always plenty of reasons to visit the Herkimer County Fair, but this year's event has one attraction that's guaranteed to make animal lovers smile.

For the first time, fairgoers will have the chance to snuggle with a miniature Highland cow, and it just might become one of the most popular stops on the fairgrounds.

Meet Miss Bernadette Petunia

Her name is Miss Bernadette Petunia, and she's one of the newest additions coming to this year's Herkimer County Fair.

The adorable miniature Highland cow will be part of the new Snuggle attraction, where visitors can get up close, take photos, and spend some quality time with one of the fluffiest animals you'll ever meet. Mini Highland cattle are still rare in Central New York, making this a unique experience you won't find at many local fairs.

The Snuggle experience is expected to be open daily from around 3 PM until 9 or 10 PM, giving everyone plenty of time to stop by after enjoying the rides, food, and entertainment.

More Than Just Cute Cows

The Herkimer County Fair returns August 18 through August 23, bringing six days of family fun, agriculture, entertainment, and plenty of fair food.

Visitors can also look forward to:

Opening night fireworks on Tuesday.
Little Miss, Little Mister, Princess, Prince, and Queen pageants.
Demolition Derbies.
Truck and Tractor Pulls.
Livestock shows featuring dairy cattle, beef cattle, sheep, horses, goats, rabbits, poultry, and more.
Live entertainment throughout the week.
Carnival rides and midway games.
Horse shows and Gymkhana competitions.
The always-popular Milking Contest.
Children's Pedal Tractor Pull.
Farmyard Olympics.
Children's Rodeo.
Agricultural exhibits, contests, and activities for all ages.

Whether you're heading to the fair for the demolition derby, the midway, live entertainment, or your favorite fair food, be sure to make time to meet Miss Bernadette Petunia.