When Pigs Fly: The Inspiring Story Behind Mineral Wells’ Flying Pig

In Mineral Wells, Texas, pigs really do fly! At least, that is the spirit behind one of the town’s quirkiest and most meaningful landmarks—the Flying Pig at Coffee & Cocktails @ 76067.

More than just a fun roadside oddity, this flying pig is a symbol of big dreams, perseverance, and the impossible becoming reality. It is also one of the must-see stops on Mineral Wells’ “15 Crazy, Weird, and Unusual Things to See” itinerary—a perfect adventure for travelers who love unique, offbeat attractions.

From “When Pigs Fly” to Dreams Taking Flight

For decades, the grand Baker Hotel & Spa stood in the heart of downtown Mineral Wells, a towering symbol of the town’s history. Once a glamorous retreat for celebrities and dignitaries, the hotel eventually closed and fell into disrepair.

Many believed it would never reopen. Locals often joked that “the Baker will be restored when pigs fly.”

However, in 2016, the community made a bold decision—not to pin all hopes on the Baker’s return. There was still hope for its restoration, but the town’s future would not be placed on hold. Instead, local businesses, city leaders, and residents came together to revitalize Mineral Wells, ensuring that whether or not the Baker reopened, the town would thrive. This movement led to the preservation of more than 100 historic buildings, earning Mineral Wells a Nationally Registered Historic District. A once-quiet downtown is now bustling with unique shops, fantastic eateries, and an exciting nightlife.

Then, in 2019, the impossible happened—renovation plans for the Baker Hotel were officially set in motion. Thanks to years of community-driven revitalization efforts, Mineral Wells was ready. If the Baker had reopened years earlier, visitors may not have found enough reasons to return. Now, when its doors open once again, it will be part of a thriving, vibrant downtown experience.

To celebrate this milestone, the Leadership Mineral Wells Class 25 took on a meaningful project: a flying pig statue, not just as a fun symbol, but as a fundraiser to help restore another local landmark—the historic Mineral Wells Welcome Sign.

Mineral Wells Flying Pigs

A Fundraiser That Left Its Mark

The Mineral Wells Welcome Sign, which once stood boldly on the hills overlooking town, inspired the world-famous HOLLYWOOD sign in California. Over time, the sign deteriorated, and locals wanted to bring it back to its former glory.

To raise funds, Leadership Mineral Wells Class 25 placed a large flying pig statue downtown and invited people to sign their names on it for $5. Hundreds of locals and visitors joined in, showing their support for preserving the past while celebrating the future.

Today, thanks to that fundraiser, the restored Welcome Sign proudly stands once again, and the signed flying pig remains inside Coffee & Cocktails @ 76067 as a reminder that no dream is too big, and no challenge is impossible.

A Festival That Brings the Story to Life

In honor of the big dreams and revitalization efforts that the Flying Pig represents, downtown Mineral Wells now hosts the Flying Pig Festival. Founded in 2024, this annual event celebrates the town’s resilience, creativity, and lively spirit.

With events like live music on the Gettin’ Piggy With It MainStage, the Flying Pig 5K, a pig calling and pig kissing contest, the Everything But The Oink BBQ Contest, and a Go Hog Wild Kid’s Area, the festival embodies the fun and quirky charm that Mineral Wells is known for. The Flying Pig Festival welcomes visitors from all over to experience the craziest little town in Texas and witness firsthand how pigs are truly flying in Mineral Wells!

Flying Pig Festival Live Music

More Than a Symbol—A Must-See Attraction

The Flying Pig of Mineral Wells is not just a local legend—it is also one of the most quirky, Instagram-worthy stops in town! It is featured on the 15 Crazy, Weird, and Unusual Things to See in Mineral Wells itinerary, which highlights some of the most unique attractions in the area.

For those who enjoy exploring offbeat and historic landmarks, here are just a few more stops from the list:
I Like Big Bobbers And I Cannot Lie – Massive fishing bobbers that make for a fun roadside stop.
Yogi Bear’s Home – A towering Yogi Bear statue with a legendary backstory.
The Laumdronat Washing Machine Museum – A quirky laundromat featuring antique washing machines.
The Crazy Water Well – The well that started the mineral water craze in Mineral Wells.
The Crazy Small Art Gallery – A tiny but interactive outdoor art gallery in downtown.
Interactive Murals – Stand in just the right spot and become part of the art.
The Famous Mineral Water Bathtub – A tribute to the town’s wellness heritage.
The Flying Pig Statue & Mural – Proof that even the impossible can happen!

Plan a Visit & Chase a “Flying Pig” Moment

Mineral Wells is a town built on big dreams, bold ideas, and a belief in the impossible. Whether visitors are drawn by history, adventure, or just a little bit of fun, the Flying Pig of Mineral Wells is a must-see.

While in town, visitors can grab a coffee, snap a photo, and make a wish—because in Mineral Wells, pigs really do fly.

Want to explore more unique spots? Check out the full 15 Crazy, Weird, and Unusual Things to See in Mineral Wells itinerary.