9,000 milkshakes in 3 days: PA Dairymen’s Association’s famous treat a draw at Ag Progress Days

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Penn State’s Ag Progress Days draws as many as 50,000 people to the Russell E. Larson Agriculture Research Center in Rock Springs to learn about advancements in agriculture.

But those who aren’t particularly interested in farming still have reasons to visit the three-day event that started Tuesday. One of those reasons is the food — with the milkshakes a top draw. The PA Dairymen’s Association milkshakes are the same ones that are famous for being sold annually at the Pennsylvania Farm Show.

The PA Dairymen’s Association pairs with the PA Jr. Guernsey Breeders to serve up an estimated 9,000 milkshakes in the three days of Ag Progress Days. Visitors can choose from a chocolate, vanilla or twist milkshake and the proceeds help raise money for agriculture organizations.

The PA Dairymen’s Association has a premium soft serve mix that comes from dairy milk produced in Pennsylvania. The mix is poured into a milkshake machine where it freezes to their preferred consistency before being served by volunteers.

“It’s PA preferred product, it comes from dairy milk produced right here in Pennsylvania. We’re adamant about that, we’re supporting our Pennsylvania dairy farmers,” said David Smith, executive director of the Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association.

If you’re looking for a meal before your dessert, there is also beef brisket, pulled pork or smoked ham sandwiches from the Pennsylvania Livestock Association, cheesesteaks and sausages sandwiches from Pennsylvania FFA and several other Pennsylvania sourced food stands.

Here’s a look at the milkshake tent, along with other food vendors at Ag Progress Days. The event runs through Thursday, and a full schedule of events can be found online.