What are showpig auctions?

Showpig auctions are events at which individuals bid on finely bred pigs. Showpig auctions can take place online or in traditional auction locations. They are popular events at state and local fairs, which often serve as locations for auctioning other show animals and livestock.

Often, showpig auctions feature a specific breeder, such as Newcastle Genetics or Ottenwalter Showpigs. In many cases, auctions focus solely on boars or barrows. As of 2015, online auctions have recently increased in popularity. This means that many breeders sell the best animals online, leaving physical auctions depleted of the best offerings, and a large showpig community has developed around auctions.