After failing to see his shadow yesterday, February 2, Ontario’s adorably furry Wiarton Willie called for an early start to spring!
Crowds gathered bright and early at Bluewater Park in Wiarton, Ontario to see the local celebrity – an albino groundhog – make his annual prediction for the long term forecast, which took place just after 8 a.m.
The yearly Groundhog Day festival actually begun days earlier than Willie’s appearance, and included events throughout the weekend like a chili cook-off, darts tournament, pancake breakfast, skating, and more.
While not rooted in any science whatsoever, the beloved tradition has been celebrated in Wiarton since 1956 and draws locals and visitors alike to come together and celebrate every winter.
According to folklore, if a groundhog sees its shadow on February 2, it will retreat into its burrow, bringing six more weeks of winter. If it does not see his shadow, spring is said to arrive early.
Luckily, Willie brought optimism for warmer days ahead – despite being one of the only prognosticators across North America to do so.
In contrast, Lucy the Lobster and Shubenacadie Sam of Nova Scotia, Fred la Marmotte of Quebec, Van Isle Violet of British Columbia, and Punxsutawney Phil of Pennsylvania all predicted six more weeks of winter.
Here’s to hoping our very own Wiarton Willie is the correct one of the bunch, and spring arrives before we know it!