Officials with Wiarton Willie at the annual Wiarton Willie Festival in Bluewater Park, February 2, 2025. Photo provided by the Town of South Bruce Peninsula. Officials with Wiarton Willie at the annual Wiarton Willie Festival in Bluewater Park, February 2, 2025. Photo provided by the Town of South Bruce Peninsula.
Sarnia

Wiarton Willie calling for early spring

Wiarton Willie is predicting an early spring, a different opinion from other celebrity groundhogs.

The weather prognosticator did not see his shadow when he emerged from his home just after 8 a.m. Sunday.

Folklore said if a groundhog sees its shadow on February 2, it will retreat into its burrow, bringing six more weeks of winter.

In Oil Springs, Groundhog Harvey has retired so he did not make a prediction.

Meanwhile, other celebrity groundhogs have a different opinion.

Nova Scotia's Shubenacadie Sam and Punxsutawney Phil both saw their shadows and are predicting six more weeks of winter.

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Owen Sound light displace honouring the ship, the Manitoba. Photo from the City of Owen Sound

Owen Sound honours historic ship

The City of Owen Sound will officially commemorate a well-loved harbourfront space next week with a special plaque unveiling celebrating the Manitoba-inspired lights and public area along the inner east harbour.