Pig Day

What Is Pig Day?

Every year on March 1st is "Pig Day." It was established in 1972 by American sisters Ellen Stanley and Mary Lynne Rave to honor "the pig -- one of the smartest animals and one closest to humans." Events celebrating the intelligence and charm of pigs are held around the world, mainly in the United States. It's a day to set aside prejudices about pigs and shine a light on their appeal.

The "Philosopher of the Forest"

Pigs are actually highly intelligent, with learning abilities said to rival those of chimpanzees and dolphins. They can recognize themselves in mirrors and even solve complex puzzles. Following on from National Pig Day's eve, March 1st is a day to focus on this rich emotional and intellectual life, respecting pigs not merely as "food" but as living beings in their own right.

A Gift of Life That Supports Our Table and Health

At the same time, pigs have long served as a valuable source of protein for humanity. Pork, rich in vitamin B1, helps with fatigue recovery and is an essential part of a healthy diet. March 1st is also a day to deepen our gratitude for the lives that sustain us -- a chance to reflect on the weight of the phrase "itadakimasu" and to honor food by using every part without waste.

The Pig as a Symbol of Wealth and Happiness

In many cultures, pigs are seen as symbols of "wealth," "fertility," and "happiness." In German, the phrase "Schwein haben" (literally "to have a pig") means "to be lucky," and in Japan, piggy banks are a classic symbol of saving money. March 1st is a day to embrace the pig as a "lucky animal" and wish for some good fortune of your own.

Surprising Facts About Pigs

• A master of smell: As famously demonstrated by truffle hunting, a pig's sense of smell is said to be even sharper than a dog's.
• Surprisingly fast: Adult pigs can run at speeds of around 17 km/h.
• Heart transplant research: Because their organs are similar in size to human organs, pigs play an important role in regenerative medicine and transplant research.
• They don't sweat: Pigs have almost no sweat glands, so they need water or mud to cool down.
• Over 20 kinds of oinks: Pigs use more than 20 different vocalizations to communicate with each other.

A Heartfelt "Oink" for All the Richness Pigs Bring

Pig Day is a day to look at this animal -- so closely connected to our lives -- from many angles: its charm as a pet, its strength in the wild, and its dedication as part of our food culture. On March 1st, take a moment to appreciate how much richer pigs make our world, and think about the warm pulse of life behind that round little snout.

Tips for Enjoying Pig Day

• When eating pork, savor every bite with gratitude for its nutritional value and the life it represents.
• Enjoy a movie or picture book featuring pigs -- like "Piglet" or "Babe" -- and rediscover their intelligence and personality.
• Put some coins in a piggy bank or admire pig-themed items around you to invite a bit of good luck.
• Check out a zoo's or pig farm's social media to see pigs living peacefully, and let it bring you some calm.

Carrying Happiness, Connecting Life

March 1st is a day to feel the pulse of "life" stirring with the arrival of spring. Let's gratefully receive the "wealth" and "health" that pigs bring our way, and remember not to forget kindness toward all living things. May today be a day that fills your heart and stomach, and brings smiles tumbling out one after another, like dominoes falling into place!