Wiarton Willie Festival

Date: January 31, 2026  - February 2, 2026
Community: Wiarton
Venue Name: Bluewater Park
Address: 400 William Street Wiarton, Ontario

Every February 2nd, anticipation fills the air as people from all corners of the globe eagerly await the prediction from our famed groundhog. With all eyes on Wiarton Willie, the question lingers: will he cast a shadow, foretelling six more weeks of winter, or will his absence of a shadow herald an early spring?

The tradition of Wiarton Willie has captivated hearts for generations, drawing visitors and media attention from far and wide. Join us in Wiarton as we come together to witness this age-old tradition, celebrating the quirks and wonders of nature with enthusiasm and joy. Whether you’re a weather enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique and memorable experience, the Wiarton Willie celebration is an event not to be missed.

Contact Information

Website: https://www.southbrucepeninsula.com/en/explore-and-play/wiarton-willie.aspx
Social Media:

Friday January 30, 2026

  • Wiarton Willie Hockey Tournament ALL WEEKEND at the Wiarton Arena. View the game schedule.
  • 8pm-1am Wiarton & District Lions Club Casino Night at the Wiarton Propeller Club – Blackjack tables, Crown & Anchor Wheel and Door Prizes! Free Admission with proceeds to the Salvation Army Christmas Hamper Fund.  See the poster.

Saturday January 31, 2026

  • 10am-2pm Fun in Bluewater Park – Join the Town for free, family-friendly fun.  Enjoy inflatable mazes, two trackless trains, sleigh rides, gaming trailers, and so much more. There’s something for everyone—bundle up and come out for a day of winter fun in Bluewater Park in Wiarton!
  • 10am-3pm Wiarton Propeller Club Vendors/Crafters Market – Admission $1.  Soup and sandwiches available to purchase.  See the flyer 
  • 11am to 2pm Masonic Cheap Chili Chowdown 11am to 2pm $5/serving – This popular event is an inexpensive way to take the chill off a hard day of Groundhogging. Just a few steps from main street, one block east of the Post Office across from the firehall at 590 Claude Street.
  • 8pm-2am Wiarton Willie Weekend Arena Dance – Featuring the Fat Tony Band. $20/per ticket, contact Hayden for tickets 519-270-8699. View the poster
  • 8pm-1am Wiarton Willie Dance at the Wiarton Propeller Club – Featuring Midnight Blue.  Dance tickets are $20 and can be purchased at Josie’s Fashion’s (618 Berford St., Wiarton) or from any Lion’s Club Member. Email Wiarton & District Lions Club or see the poster

Monday February 2, 2026

The excitement kicks off with fireworks at 7am, followed by entertainment brought to you by Bruce Power, Prediction Morning fun with our MC and a visit from the Shadow Cabinet and Dignitaries.  Wrap all of that up with the eagerly anticipated 70th Annual Official Prediction from Wiarton Willie at 8:07 a.m. Will Willie see his shadow and predict six more weeks of winter, or signal an early spring? Prediction Morning takes place in the former Sobey’s parking lot, home of the future new Town Hall on William Street in Wiarton.

The morning will include free swag from the Town and our sponsors, free breakfast sandwiches served by the Peninsula Shores District School parents, and hot beverages courtesy of MNP.  All while supplies last.

Can’t make it in person? Watch the festivities live thanks to Rogers Sports & Media.

9am to 3pm Mayor’s Day at Deepwater Gallery where people can explore Larry Isbester’s 42 years of satirical cartoons for the Wiarton