Norbert the Pig: Buffalo Grove, IL, pet pig skateboards, loves pop punk

BUFFALO GROVE, Ill.– If you live in Buffalo Grove, it’s not uncommon to see a 150-pound, black-and-white pig named Norbert skateboarding down the sidewalk. His owners, Vincent and Alicen Baran, said he quickly became a favorite with their neighbors, who often bring him gifts and treats.

“People just enjoy seeing a pig do things that pigs don’t normally do,” Vincent said. “I took one of my old skateboards and put it on display and literally within seven days he could get his hooves on the board and shove with his other hooves.”

“It’s not always graceful, but it’s definitely something unique to see,” Alicen said. “It’s just the craziest thing to see him roll by.”

Aside from skateboarding, Norbert enjoys pop punk at home and the pair have recreated music videos for the likes of Blink 182 and New Found Glory, which feature Norbert in place of the band members and other characters. In the video for “My Bloody Valentine,” Norbert plays the hot love interest of pop-punk artist Machine Gun Kelly.

“I made Norbert the ‘Megan Fox’ of his music video,” said Vincent.

Having a pet pig was a childhood dream for Vincent and Norbert is the couple’s second miniature pig. Their first pig, Ralph, gained a following on social media before passing away from complications from a genetic condition.

“He really was a delight,” said Alicen. “We had to fill that little pig-shaped hole in our hearts and that’s where Norbert comes in.”

Norbert can do common tricks dogs can do like shake and spin, but skateboarding is the most impressive. When he’s not doing tricks or eating, Norbert hangs out in a Little Tikes playhouse next to the couple’s kitchen, which they’ve baby-proofed with gates and cabinet locks to lock up the hungry pig.

“That’s Norbert’s house,” said Alicen. “We actually did some work and remodeled our house to better accommodate him.”

Alicen said that although Norbert is really her husband Vincent’s love, she is convinced that the pig secretly loves her more.

“I gotta say, as much as Vince loves that pig, Norbert is a mama’s boy,” Alicen said.

For more information about Norbert The Pig, follow him on Instagram, Twitter and TikTok @himynameisnorbert.