Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi celebrated the second birthday of Moo Deng, the pygmy hippopotamus who became a global viral sensation, with a three-day "Moo Deng HAPPY Deng DAY" festival from 10 to 12 July. The event doubled as the launch of the zoo's new Hippo Village project, backed by a 75-million-baht government budget.
A Birthday Fit for a Global Star
Boonchob Suthammanuswong, chairman of the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, led the official ceremony at the zoo's hippopotamus exhibit alongside zoo director Narongwit Chodchoi and Zoological Park Organization director Jongkolnee Kaewsod. Visitors joined zoo staff in singing "Happy Birthday" before presenting Moo Deng with a cake made entirely of fresh fruits and vegetables. The celebration also included a photo exhibition dedicated to Moo Deng, a parade of animal mascots, and a booth where fans could write birthday messages. "Moo Deng has proven to be a true soft power ambassador for Thailand," Boonchob said, crediting her with boosting tourism and revenue for Chonburi province.
Hippo Village Set to Open in 2027
The newly announced Hippo Village project will use a nature-based design to upgrade the exhibition and breeding areas for both pygmy hippopotamuses and common hippopotamuses, with construction scheduled to begin in 2027. Officials said the redesign is intended to improve animal welfare, allow the hippos to display more natural behaviour, and add sustainable environmental management systems, while also expanding visitor capacity at what has become one of Thailand's most popular animal attractions. Admission was free for children aged 12 and under and adults 60 and over during the three-day celebration, though vehicle entrance fees still applied.
