What’s the story behind Wiarton Willie, the most famous groundhog in Canada and the only albino weather prognosticator in the world? It all began in 1957 when fun-loving local Mac McKenzie wanted to liven up Wiarton in the bleak months of winter.
McKenzie sent out invitations for a Groundhog Day celebration to all of his city friends. The Toronto Daily Star sent reporter Frank Teskey, who met McKenzie at the Arlington Hotel where he was enjoying a few drinks with some friends. Teskey joined the party, but the next day he knew he couldn’t return to Toronto without something of a story for the paper. The group of partiers went outside to dig a little hole in the snow, looked around for an animal that looked like a groundhog, grabbed a white fur hat from a lady, threw it into the hole, and took a photo. A tradition was born!
When can I see Wiarton Willie?
The little town of Wiarton is still celebrating their local groundhog with statues, murals, and signs. Each February 2nd (Groundhog Day) at the Wiarton Willie Festival, Willie predicts either an early spring or six more weeks of winter, and the prediction is broadcasted around the globe.
You can visit Wiarton Willie year-round at his home in Bluewater Park by the shores of Colpoy’s Bay.
Visit our Explore Wiarton page to learn more about this great little town!
