As Ontario endures a deep winter chill, all eyes will once again turn to Wiarton Willie, the province’s most famous groundhog, for his annual Groundhog Day forecast.
On Monday, February 2, Wiarton Willie will emerge to deliver his much-anticipated prediction: six more weeks of winter if he sees his shadow, or an early spring if he doesn’t.
This year’s event is especially significant, marking the 70th anniversary of the Groundhog Day tradition in Wiarton — a uniquely Canadian celebration that has put the community on the international map for seven decades.
According to officials from the Town of South Bruce Peninsula, Willie’s calm nature and familiarity with the spotlight have made him a beloved symbol of wintertime humour, community pride, and tradition.
How to Watch the Prediction
The official Prediction Morning will be live-streamed on Wiarton Willie Festival’s social media platforms, including Facebook and Rogers, allowing viewers across Ontario and beyond to tune in.
Groundhog Day Schedule (Feb. 2):
- 7:00 a.m. – Fireworks
- 8:07 a.m. – Wiarton Willie’s official prediction
The event takes place at 370 William Street, the future site of the community’s town hall.
While Wiarton Willie is Canada’s best-known weather-predicting groundhog, he joins other famous furry forecasters such as Shubenacadie Sam in Nova Scotia and Fred la marmotte in Quebec — all part of a tradition rooted in centuries-old folklore.
Whether Willie calls for an early spring or more winter ahead, the annual ritual continues to bring communities together with a mix of hope, history, and light-hearted fun.