MIAMI (AP) — Christmas traditions can vary greatly across cultures, but one South Florida event has taken the holiday spirit to heart with its unique twist. On Friday, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava granted pardons to two four-month-old piglets, Glinda and Elphaba, saving them from becoming traditional Christmas Eve dinners.
The ceremony, held outside Latin Cafe 2000 in downtown Miami, is part of a seven-year tradition inspired by the well-known presidential Thanksgiving turkey pardon. This event highlights the cultural significance of lechon asado, or roasted pig, which is a popular festive treat among Cuban American families and others during the holiday season.
Levine Cava spoke to attendees about the importance of family gatherings during the holidays, saying, “The holidays are definitely the favorite part of the year for me and for so many. It’s a time of gratitude. A time when we reunite with our families and our loved ones. And of course, good food, right? So important — but not a very good time to be a pig in Miami.”
Glinda and Elphaba, named after the characters from the musical Wicked, seemed more interested during the event in munching on slices of apples and oranges than paying attention to the crowd. This distraction worked perfectly for the piglets, who will now have the opportunity to thrive at an animal sanctuary south of Miami. With an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, the pigs will have many joyful years to come.
The event was initially sparked by Eric Castellanos, the owner of the Latin cafe where the pardon took place. Castellanos remarked on how the idea came about as a joke among staff after noticing the peculiar absence of turkey as a holiday staple among Miami’s culinary preferences. He stated, “We really don’t eat turkey here in Miami. We eat pork. So we looked at each other and said, ‘Hey, someone should do this.’” What started as lighthearted banter has since transformed the pig pardon ceremony—a delightful South Florida phenomenon.
Mayor Levine Cava continued to indulge the audience by recalling her commitment to the piglets: “I grant a full mayoral pardon for our lucky friends Glinda and Elphaba and wish them many happy healthy years ahead.” This affirmation solidified the celebration of animal life as something to be honored within the community.
For many attendees, the pig pardon symbolizes not only humor and whimsy but also engenders compassion for animals—reminding everyone of the lives behind the meals often enjoyed during traditional festivities. The event has grown over the years, drawing larger crowds and fostering discussion about animal welfare, highlighting the importance of kindness toward all creatures.
While roasting pork remains central to many holiday celebrations, the piglets' pardon brings attention to the possibility of alternative practices around the holidays. With initiatives like these, Miami-Dade County continues to navigate the delicate balance between tradition and compassion, bridging the cultural practices of the past with the values of present day.
The event resonates deeply, as it captures the essence of Miami’s vibrant culture and its commitment to embracing diverse traditions. At the heart of this celebration lies the suggestion of joy, peace, and fellowship, reminding the community to cherish relationships with both family and animals alike. While Glinda and Elphaba will not be savoring the traditional holiday feast, they will instead relish in their victory; living contentedly at the sanctuary, they will enjoy their newfound freedom.
With this playful event firmly rooted within Miami’s holiday narrative, it encourages everyone to reflect on their own traditions and the stories they tell. Perhaps this time of year isn’t just about the meals shared but the values recognized and choices made. This playful pig pardon is more than just saving two piglets; it's about nurturing compassion within community ties during this festive season.
