Wiarton Willie, left, and South Bruce Peninsula Mayor Jay Kirkland on Groundhog Day 2024. (photo by Fred Wallace)
The Town of South Bruce Peninsula is getting ready to wake up Wiarton Willie to receive the groundhog’s annual prediction.
Manager of Economic Development and Corporate Communications Danielle Edwards says ahead of Mayor Jay Kirkland conferring with Willie on Feb. 2, the town has a full weekend of fun lined up.
The festivities get underway on Friday with the Wiarton Willie Hockey Tournament as well as a free public skate from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Wiarton Arena.
That evening between 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., the Wiarton and District Lions Club will be hosting a casino night at the Wiarton Propeller Club, the proceeds will go to the Salvation Army Christmas Hamper Fund.
The next day will begin with a pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon at St. John’s United Church before families can head over to Bluewater Park for a variety of activities, including trackless trains, sleigh rides, gaming trailers, and more.
During the fun at Bluewater Park, the Wiarton Propeller Club will have a vendors and crafter’s market.
Those looking to show off their singing skills will be able to take part in karaoke Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Propeller Club.
The weekend will culminate in early morning fireworks on Monday at 7 a.m. at Bluewater Park to wake up Willie before the famous groundhog makes his prediction at 8:07 a.m.
According to legend, if Willie sees his shadow, we will be in for mix more weeks of winter.
“I believe the mayor has been consulting with our famous groundhog, but I don’t want to give anything away,” says Edwards.
More details on the event can be found on the municipal website here.