Wiarton Willie

Welcome to the Wiarton Willie Festival, a cherished tradition that has brought joy and excitement to Wiarton for over 65 wonderful years. It all began with Mac McKenzie, a spirited individual with a desire to shake off the winter blues and bring some warmth to the community.

In a whimsical gesture, Mac decided to host a gathering for a hundred of his dearest friends on Groundhog Day in Wiarton. With a simple press release inviting them to join in the festivities, he aimed to infuse the chilly season with laughter and camaraderie. Little did he know that this casual get-together would blossom into an iconic celebration.

As fate would have it, the media caught wind of Mac's plan, and a curious reporter ventured to Wiarton to uncover the story behind this unconventional Groundhog Day gathering. After some investigation around town, the reporter stumbled upon a local establishment, where Mac and his friends were enjoying each other's company with a drink or two.

In a moment of whimsy and spontaneity, when asked about the whereabouts of the groundhog, Mac playfully tossed a fur hat into the snow. Seizing the opportunity for a memorable photo, the reporter immortalized the hat as a stand-in for the elusive groundhog. And with that playful gesture, Wiarton's Groundhog Day tradition was born.

Since that lighthearted moment, the Wiarton Willie Festival has evolved into an annual extravaganza, drawing visitors from near and far to partake in the merriment. From lively parades and entertainment to local delicacies and family-friendly activities, the festival radiates the warmth of community spirit and the joy of coming together to embrace the season.

Join us in commemorating this cherished legacy and creating new memories as we celebrate Wiarton Willie, the beloved groundhog who has captured the hearts of all who visit. Experience the magic, laughter, and camaraderie that define the Wiarton Willie Festival—a celebration that continues to brighten winters and create lasting smiles.

Legend has it that the stars aligned to mark the birth of a remarkable groundhog who would forever change the landscape of weather prediction. Grundoon, Muldoon, and Sand Dune, the wise groundhogs, emerged from their hibernation to deliver a prophecy to Mac, foretelling the arrival of this extraordinary creature.

This mystical white groundhog possessed an unparalleled gift—the ability to accurately forecast the arrival of spring. Every February 2nd, he would emerge from his burrow, ready to communicate his predictions to those who could understand the ancient language of Groundhogese.

As word spread of Willie's uncanny predictions, people from near and far flocked to witness this marvel, sparking the birth of an annual festival. Over time, the Festival has blossomed into the grandest winter celebration in Bruce County, drawing in locals and visitors alike to revel in the magic of Willie's prognostications.

Join us in commemorating this legendary groundhog whose fame knows no bounds. Experience the wonder of Willie's predictions and immerse yourself in the festivities that have evolved alongside his meteoric rise to fame. Be part of this cherished tradition and celebrate the spirit of community and anticipation as we await Willie's annual weather prophecy.

Recognizing the need to properly honor our beloved icon, the Town rallied together to create the illustrious "Shadow Cabinet." Led by the esteemed figure known as The Mayor of the Land and of the Marmot, who possesses the unique ability to converse in Groundhogese, the Shadow Cabinet stands as a tribute to Willie's significance in our lives.

Throughout the years, the Shadow Cabinet has housed remarkable individuals, each playing a vital role in celebrating and managing Willie's prominence. From the Minister of Inter-Burrow Affairs to the Minister of Hot Air and Hogwash, from the Director of Business, Buttons, and Bows to the Minister of Ancient Affairs, this esteemed assembly reflects the diverse facets of our community.

Notable dignitaries and esteemed guests have graced Willie's celebrations, adding grandeur to the events. Chiefs of our First Nations neighbors, the eloquent Town Criers, distinguished personalities like the Premier of Ontario, and supportive Festival sponsors have all joined in celebrating Willie's predictions and the spirit of our community.

Each year, Willie makes a prediction at 8:07 am.

We are proud to present the Mac McKenzie Award to Koreen Ryan for her incredible contributions to the Wiarton Willie Festival. As the owner of Ram Trophies, Koreen’s shop was the go-to for Wiarton Willie merchandise, and she tirelessly supported the festival by engraving the Mac McKenzie plaque each year.

Koreen’s dedication to Prediction Morning and her year-round support of Wiarton Willie celebrations have left a lasting impact on our community. Thank you, Koreen, for your outstanding commitment! 

2010 John Aiken

2011 Alan Given

2012 Joe Bell

2013 Jim Mitchell

2014 Keith Gilbert

2015 Joanne Lancaster

2016 Paul Sutter

2017 Bruce Peninsula Association for Community Living

2018 David Nixon

2019 Mary Lynn Standen

2020 Angie McDougall

2022 Jeff Brown

2023 MacGregor Tannahill and Bruce Kruger

2024 Kevin Forget