Wiarton Willie is Western Ontario’s representative in the Groundhog Day tradition of having the eponymous animals predict whether it will be an early or late spring based on whether it sees its shadow. The prediction is typically the centre of a large festival that draws in visitors from nearby cities like London and Waterloo, as well as further afield, and it is one of the biggest events in the South Bruce Peninsula town. This year will see a stripped-down version without many of the surrounding events, but Willie will make his prediction on schedule through an online stream.
This year’s appearance by Willie will be the 65th annual celebration of Groundhog Day in the Ontario town. Willie is one of dozens of “predictor animals” across North America, which are typically, but not always, groundhogs, as small towns look to take part in the fun of the light-hearted holiday. Some Groundhog Day devotees make pilgrimages to the various animals and collect Promotional Products, such as T-Shirts and keychains.
South Bruce Peninsula Mayor Janice Jackson expressed the importance of the event to the community:
“Willie is iconic, right. He’s know around the world. It’s a real focal point for our community, and a real sense of pride.”
Willie will make his 65th appearance on the morning of February 2, which will be broadcast online.
Get a Free Quote for Promotional Products Get a Free Quote for T-Shirts