Viral pygmy hippo Moo Deng turns 2: Thailand throws three-day birthday bash for its beloved internet star

Thailand's favourite pygmy hippopotamus, Moo Deng, has turned two, her birthday celebrations are every bit as adorable as fans would expect.

The viral internet sensation, whose playful antics and expressive face won hearts across social media in 2024, is being honoured with a three-day festival at Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi province, where thousands of visitors are expected to celebrate her milestone birthday. The event, titled "Moo Deng Happy Deng Day," runs from July 10 to July 12 and features mascot parades, interactive games, birthday cards from fans, wildlife education activities and a specially prepared hippo-friendly birthday cake made from her favourite fruits and vegetables, as per a report in The Strait Times.

The zoo is also offering free admission to children aged 12 and under, as well as senior citizens aged 60 and above, during the celebrations. Alongside the festivities, officials are unveiling the Hippo Village project, a new exhibit aimed at improving animal welfare while giving visitors a better learning experience.

More from Lifestyle

Who is Moo Deng?

Born on July 10, 2024, Moo Deng is a female pygmy hippopotamus who shot to global fame when videos of her energetic personality and permanently startled expressions flooded social media. Her name, which translates to "bouncy pork" in Thai, was chosen through a public vote and quickly became synonymous with one of the internet's biggest animal phenomena.

Within weeks of going viral, Moo Deng transformed Khao Kheow Open Zoo into one of Thailand's most popular tourist attractions. Visitor numbers surged as fans travelled from around the world to catch a glimpse of the charismatic calf, while her likeness appeared on merchandise, artwork and countless memes across social media platforms.

More than just birthday celebrations

Zoo officials say this year's festival is about more than celebrating a social media celebrity. They hope Moo Deng's popularity will encourage conversations around wildlife conservation, animal welfare and environmental education.

Visitors will also have an opportunity to meet her keepers, learn about the daily care of pygmy hippopotamuses and explore exhibits highlighting conservation efforts for the endangered species.

Although the frenzy surrounding Moo Deng has mellowed as she has grown older, her second birthday proves she remains one of Thailand's most beloved animal ambassadors—and one of the internet's most enduring viral stars.