Find out who's participating at the 2026 World Championship Cheese Contest

Some of the Capital Region and Hudson Valley’s best cheesemakers are getting ready for a worldwide spotlight.

Local dairy producers will compete in the 2026 World Championship Cheese Contest, happening March 3–5 in Madison, Wisconsin. The event is one of the most prestigious in the industry, featuring 3,375 entries across 150 categories from competitors in 25 countries and 34 U.S. states and territories.

Representing our area are:

• Argyle Cheese Farmer (Hudson Falls)

• BelGioioso Cheese (Glenville)

• Churchtown Dairy (Hudson)

• Euphrates Cheese (Johnstown)

• Four Fat Fowl (Stephentown)

• Hudson Valley Creamery (Hudson)

• Lactalis Heritage Dairy (Walton)

• McGrath Cheese Company (Hudson)

• Nettle Meadow (Lake Luzerne)

Beyond the chance to take home the title of World Champion, competitors will also receive feedback from top international experts—something organizers say helps producers refine and elevate their products.

According to the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, which hosts the event, the contest has been a global benchmark for dairy excellence since 1957.

Judging takes place March 3 and 4, with the public invited to watch and sample cheeses in Madison. The winner will be announced via livestream on March 5.

For local cheese lovers, it’s another reminder that some of the world’s best dairy products are being made right here in our backyard.