What is Rachel the Piggy Bank?

Rachel is a 550-pound life-size bronze piggy bank sculpture and the mascot of Pike Place Market. Created by sculptor Georgia Gerber, she serves as a public fundraiser for the Pike Place Market Foundation to support social service agencies in the Market community.

Where is Rachel the Piggy Bank located?

Rachel is located at the corner of Pike Street and Pike Place, standing beneath the Market's famous Public Market Center neon clock and sign.

What is the history of Rachel the Piggy Bank?

Rachel was dedicated on August 17, 1986, which was the Market's 79th birthday. She was modeled after a real prize-winning pig named Rachel from the Whidbey Island County Fair.

Does rubbing the statue bring good luck?

According to legend, you will have good luck if you rub Rachel's snout and make a donation.

How much money has Rachel raised?

Rachel has raised more than $200,000 since 1986. Together with Billie the Piggy Bank, they have raised more than $350,000 and continue to collect around $20,000 per year.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Rachel the Piggy Bank in Seattle

What to know

Rachel the Piggy Bank is a life-size bronze sculpture located at the corner of Pike Street and Pike Place, standing proudly beneath the Market's famous neon clock sign. Created by Whidbey Island sculptor Georgia Gerber, this 550-pound icon was dedicated on August 17, 1986, to coincide with the Market's 79th birthday. More than just a piece of public art, Rachel serves as a major public fundraiser for the Pike Place Market Foundation. The money she collects is used to fund essential social service agencies within the Market community, including programs focused on food, health, and services for low-income neighbors. Rachel's design is based on a real-life inspiration. She was modeled after a real prize-winning pig named Rachel, a 770-pound behemoth from the 1985 Whidbey Island County Fair. This connection to local agricultural history adds a layer of charm to her presence in the bustling market. Over the decades, Rachel has become a beloved symbol of the Market. Along with her cousin Billie, who joined her in 2011, these porcine princesses have raised more than $350,000 in total. Legend has it that rubbing Rachel's snout for good luck while making a donation is a must-do for any visitor.

Visitor tips

Keep some small change or coins from around the world to donate to the Market's social services.
Rub Rachel's snout for good luck as you make your donation.
Look up to see the famous Public Market Center neon clock sign directly above her.

Nearby context

Rachel stands at the primary entrance to Pike Place Market, acting as a welcoming mascot for visitors entering the corner of Pike Street and Pike Place.