Groundhog Day 2026: Willie and Fred Predict Spring; Sam Absent
Groundhog Day 2026 brought mixed predictions from Canada’s famous groundhogs as winter storms impacted one of the events. Wiarton Willie, the groundhog from Bruce County, Ontario, and Fred la Marmotte from Quebec’s Gaspésie region were prepared to make their annual predictions about the arrival of spring. Meanwhile, Shubenacadie Sam from Nova Scotia was unable to participate.
Shubenacadie Sam’s Event Cancelled
The Nova Scotia government announced the cancellation of Shubenacadie Sam’s Groundhog Day event due to inclement weather. Blowing snow and hazardous conditions were forecasted, making travel unsafe for spectators intending to visit Shubenacadie Wildlife Park. This event typically attracts numerous visitors, but this year’s forecast predicted significant snowfall.
- Date of Event: February 2, 2026
- Location of Sam: Shubenacadie Wildlife Park, approximately 50 kilometers north of Halifax
- Winter Storm Warning: Up to 25 centimeters of snow expected in northern Nova Scotia and Cape Breton
Predictions from Other Groundhogs
Despite the absence of Shubenacadie Sam, Wiarton Willie and Fred la Marmotte went ahead with their predictions. According to tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow, six more weeks of winter are anticipated. If not, an early spring is expected.
Lucy the Lobster’s Participation
In a unique twist, Lucy the Lobster from Barrington, Nova Scotia, is also making predictions for the season. Since 2018, Lucy has been a part of the Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl festival, a tradition that pays homage to similar European customs. These customs date back to medieval times when farmers gauged the onset of spring by observing the behavior of hedgehogs.
As the Groundhog Day celebrations continue, the uncertainty of spring’s arrival remains a cherished tradition for many Canadians. The excitement surrounding the predictions from these furry – or in Lucy’s case, shelled – creatures remains a beloved part of the cultural landscape in Canada.
