March 1

National Pig Day

An appreciation day on March 1 honoring pigs and recognizing their intelligence, domesticity, and cultural significance.

Yearly Date

March 1

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate National Pig Day on March 1! This special day was created in 1972 by sisters Ellen Stanley and Mary Lynne Rave, as a way to recognize the importance of pigs in our lives. Pigs are both adorable and intelligent animals that are capable of forming strong bonds with humans. They can be found all over the world, from farms to petting zoos.

National Pig Day Timeline

1972

National Pig Day Founded

Sisters Ellen Stanley and Mary Lynne Rave founded National Pig Day to honor and recognize pigs.

1979

First Pig Sanctuary

The first pig sanctuary, "Pigs-A-Plenty", was established in the United States, offering a safe haven for abandoned or abused pigs.

1985

Pigs as Pets Trend

"Pot-bellied" pigs became popular as pets in the U.S., further increasing awareness and appreciation for pigs.

2002

Publication of "The Good Good Pig"

Sy Montgomery's memoirs, "The Good Good Pig," shedding light on the intelligence and charm of pigs, became a bestseller.

2018

Year of the Pig

The year 2018 marked the Year of the Pig on the Chinese zodiac, leading to a spike in pig-themed celebrations worldwide.

How to Celebrate National Pig Day

1 Visit a pig farm

Visit a local pig farm and learn more about these intelligent animals. You can even pet them or feed them treats.

2 Make a pig craft

Make your own piggy bank, paper plate pig, or origami pig. Get creative and show your appreciation for these animals.

3 Eat pork dishes

What better way to celebrate National Pig Day than to eat some delicious pork dishes? Try out your favorite roasted pork dish, pulled pork sandwich, bacon wrapped asparagus, or even chicharron.

4 Read a book about pigs

Check out a book from your local library that focuses on pigs. Whether it’s an informative nonfiction book or an entertaining children’s story, you’ll be sure to find something that fits the bill.

5 Watch a movie featuring pigs

Watch a movie featuring pigs, like Babe, Charlotte’s Web, or The Muppets Take Manhattan. Have fun with family and friends while celebrating this holiday.

Why We Love National Pig Day

Pigs are intelligent animals

Pigs are highly intelligent animals, capable of using simple tools to find food. They can also learn commands and perform tricks like walking in circles or balancing on their front feet. Pigs have also been shown to form strong bonds with people and develop a deep affection for their caregivers.

Pig farming supports small family farms

When you buy pork products from farmers that raise pigs in humane conditions, you're supporting small family farms and helping to keep local communities economically viable. Eating responsibly raised pork is not only better for the environment, but it's also better for the animals and better for you!

Pig meat can be delicious

Whether it’s roasted piglet, pulled pork sandwiches, bacon wrapped scallops, or pan fried chorizo, there’s no denying that pig meat can be prepared in such as way as to be absolutely mouthwatering. So why not enjoy National Pig Day by preparing something special? You won't regret it!