Turning Spare Change Into a Fredericksburg Tradition

By Laura Carter

What began as a simple idea inspired by a Fredericksburg Parent article on financial literacy and finding ways to make learning about money fun and effective for kids has grown into one of the region’s most heartwarming community traditions. 

The Big Oink Piggy Bank Contest, held at the Spotsylvania Towne Centre on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., is more than an art competition. It’s a celebration of creativity, saving, and family connection that continues to make a lasting impact on kids in the ‘Burg.

Where It All Started

Several years ago, local organizers from the Chancellors Lions Club of Fredericksburg were inspired by a 2018 article written by Nikki Ducas, “The Art of Counting Change,” which focused on teaching kids how to count and manage money.

They wanted to bring that concept to life in a way that was hands-on, engaging and fun for kids. Their solution? A piggy bank design contest that would encourage kids to think about saving while expressing their creativity. 

They partnered with Carter Bank (formerly Carter Bank & Trust) to turn the idea into a reality. The event began with just seven categories and has since grown to 10 or 11, welcoming kids of all ages and artistic abilities.

Participation varies each year: Some categories overflow with entries, while others have only a few.

As one organizer notes, “You don’t know who’s coming. It’s a bit of a surprise every time.” 

Building More than a Piggy Bank

At its core, the contest blends imagination with practical life skills. Children design and build piggy banks, often from recyclables, while learning the value of saving. 

Winners receive $40, $30 and $25, but if they open a savings account at Carter Bank, their prizes are doubled to $80, $60 and $50. 

Over the years, at least 17 children have opened accounts through the program, some growing their savings to $350 to $400, while organizers say the impact often extends beyond the contest as families begin talking about money at home.

“I am incredibly humbled that an event was created from an article I wrote many years ago,” says Nikki Ducas.

Pictured: Elianah, 9, with her piggy bank creation 

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The contest has expanded significantly since its early days. Participation has grown from 23 piggybanks in the first year to more than 50 piggy banks today. Through email campaigns, social media and local radio, they’ve been able to connect with families across the region. 

Stations like 95.9 and 104.5 Thunder, along with support from radio personality Tom Cooper, have helped promote the event through public service announcements. Even the local mall, once hesitant, has become a strong supporter and host site. 

More Than a Contest

While the contest was originally designed to teach kids about spending, saving and giving, it has evolved into a yearly tradition for many local families.

This year’s event marked a seven-year annual tradition for Melody Tackett-Jones and her family.

“It started as a way to encourage kids to learn about money, and has become a family tradition,” says Tackett-Jones. 

What makes this year even more meaningful for the Tackett-Jones family is that her husband, who recently passed away, left them with a heartfelt request:

“Don’t forget to do the piggy bank design contest. Keep the tradition alive and keep encouraging them with saving money and using their money wisely.”