What began as a wonderfully bonkers idea became one of the pet world's biggest success stories this weekend, as Piggy Fest – Guinea Pig Festival exceeded every expectation and welcomed more than 2,700 guinea pig lovers to Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park in Suffolk.

The UK's first dedicated guinea pig festival comfortably smashed its original ticket sales target of 500, with guinea pig lovers travelling from every corner of the UK – and even from the Netherlands – to celebrate the nation's favourite small pet. Official Piggy Fest T-shirts have even found fans across the Atlantic, with orders arriving in from the USA.

The overwhelming response has highlighted the incredible passion of Britain's guinea pig community. According to UK Pet Food, there are an estimated 700,000 pet guinea pigs in the UK, with around 1.2% of UK households sharing their home with at least one. Piggy Fest brought that community together in spectacular fashion, proving that these much-loved companions inspire friendships, creativity and lifelong connections.

Hosted by HayPigs! in partnership with Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park and supported by headline sponsor Supreme Petfoods, alongside Guinea Pig Magazine, Little One, Burgess Excel, Natural Nibbles, Piggie Parcels and Rosewood Pet, the festival celebrated everything that makes guinea pigs such special companions while championing responsible ownership, welfare and enrichment.

Rik and Helen Cridland, co-founders of HayPigs! & Piggy Fest, said:  "It was magical and exceeded every expectation we had for the day. Seeing so many happy faces and feeling the energy and buzz around the place was awesome.

"We knew the guinea pig community was bonkers, but they took our breath away. There is something very, very special about these little creatures that captivates our hearts, lifts us when we are sad and brings people together.

"We're so glad everyone enjoyed the day and we are incredibly grateful for everyone who showed faith in our idea and backed the festival. To the helpers, sponsors, vendors, speakers, Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park and of course, all our visitors – thank you so much for making our dream come true - you are the best. Time to start thinking about Piggy Fest 2027."

Visitors enjoyed a packed programme featuring educational talks from respected guinea pig experts, appearances from some of the community's best-loved content creators, family entertainment and plenty of opportunities to meet fellow guinea pig enthusiasts.

The festival also showcased Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park's famous Guinea Pig Village, home to 15 piggy residents who have their own church and nail bar. The Piggy Wish Tree also gave owners the chance to remember guinea pigs that had crossed the rainbow bridge – creating one of the day's most heartfelt moments.

The event raised more than £2,000 for guinea pig rescue organisations, helping support the welfare of guinea pigs across the UK.

Organisers are already looking ahead to Piggy Fest 2027, promising an even bigger celebration of the remarkable little pets that continue to bring so much joy to hundreds of thousands of homes across the UK.

Photographs by Jayne Lloyd for HayPigs!