The PigFest is a regular gathering of an eclectic group of people around a hosted table. PigFesters gather to indulge in great food and great conversation about the important issues of the day, and to sharpen their respective abilities to engage and enhance their communities.

PigFest gatherings are organized around four core rules or principles. (1) The topics of discussion are limited to theology, culture, political-economy, philosophy and history. (2) All conversations are governed by "The Devil's Rule," which means that anyone can assume the devil's advocate position on any topic without announcing it. (3) All participants are expected to honor one another above themselves -- i.e., the Golden Rule prevails, and the point of each gathering is mutual improvement. And (4) all participants must indulge themselves, and apathy about anything is out of order.

As with Ben Franklin's Junto gatherings, a moderator directs the conversation. He or she begins with an overview of the PigFest tradition and principles, selects which participants will offer propositional statements, and offers contextual and concluding remarks. Each proposition must deal with one of the five topic areas. It must be a statement of belief that includes a basic rationale. The group interacts with each "truth proposition" for 15 minutes. When the timer alarm sounds, the moderator moves to the next topic. This continues for about two hours, or an average of 6-8 "discussion rounds" per gathering. The dialogues are facilitated around the classical Greek method by asking how one defines their terms, how they know what they propose is true, and what it matters. Food platters and drinks typically rotate around the table at the end of each round.

The PigFest name suggests somewhat different things to different people, but as a brand it holds a spirited and memorable ring to it. The pig is a symbol of indulgence, and in this regard highlights the invitation to indulge in good food and good conversation. The pig is known not only for its appetite, but also for its ability to forage for hidden treasure. It breeds well, and is perhaps the most intelligent animal in the barnyard. The PigFest theme also holds promise for a variety of hospitality props and fun.

Download a PowerPoint overview addressing the subject of “PigFesting in America’s Classical Schools” Delivered by Jim Van Eerden in June 2008 at the annual gathering of The Society of Classical Learning in Charleston, South Carolina.