Courtesy of Latin Cafe 2000 / @WorldRedEye
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In Miami, we know it’s less about the turkey and all about the lechón! A playful twist on the national presidential turkey pardon, one unique cultural tradition went down Tuesday morning, marking the official start of Miami’s holiday season: the 8th Annual Pig Pardoning Ceremony.
Hosted by Latin Cafe 2000 in Brickell, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava granted a full reprieve from the caja china to this year’s honoree, a pig named Six Seven. Yes, you’re reading that right.
Each December, the event celebrates the city’s deep-rooted culinary heritage surrounding the caja china and the Noche Buena roast. While thousands of families across the county prepare for the traditional pork feast, the pig pardon offers a moment of mercy and community spirit.
Courtesy of Latin Cafe 2000 / @WorldRedEye
Attendees gathered around for this year’s ceremony, enjoying signature cafecito and spinach croquetas provided by the restaurant.
What’s next for Six Seven
This year’s lucky pig, named after the viral Internet meme, will be living the good life instead. Donated by Coral Gables Firefighter Ricardo Blasco to Pig Roast Command, a group of first responders and community leaders known for producing the popular Pig Roast Bowl, he has been promised a peaceful, lifelong sanctuary.
Courtesy of Latin Cafe 2000 / @WorldRedEye
“The Pig Pardon has become one of our favorite ways to open the holiday season,” said Eric Castellanos, owner of Latin Cafe 2000. “It captures the spirit of Miami, joyful, diverse, and rooted in traditions that bring people together. Each year, we are proud to celebrate culture and compassion in a way only Miami can.”
In previous years, other piglets that had been pardoned were named Elphaba and Glinda, as well as Taylor and Travis.