Did Woodstock Willie Declare An Early Spring In Illinois?

It's Groundhog Day and that means Woodstock Willie made his groundbreaking prediction on the weather ahead in Illinois.

Last year, Willie saw his shadow which meant another six weeks of winter.  Well, was that the case for 2024?  Fingers crossed he didn't see his shadow.  We want warmer weather sooner than later!

Many sources claim the first Groundhog Day commenced on February 2nd, 1887.

Why Do We Celebrate Groundhog Day on February 2nd?

"Groundhog Day is celebrated every Feb. 2, the same day as Candlemas, where some of the holiday's traditions originate. Candlemas was traditionally aligned with the anticipation of planting crops, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac, and seeing sunshine on the day was said to indicate more winter." [usatoday]

And, if you've never see the famous 1993 film 'Groundhog Day' with Bill Murray, Woodstock Willie didn't see his shadow, which meant an early spring.

Is that the case for 2024?

Did Woodstock Willie the groundhog see his shadow on Groundhog Day?

Put away your snow boots and winter coats because Willie didn't see his shadow... which means an EARLY SPRING IS AHEAD FOR ILLINOIS!  Woo hoo!

Willie didn't look like he was thrilled to be at the celebration.  I don't know what I thought he'd look like, but I'm so glad he looks like a grumpy old man haha.

A ton of people are having mixed emotions about this annual Groundhog Day event.  Some say it's a waste of resources and other are super excited to hear we have an early spring headed our way!

Would you rather have an early spring or six more weeks of winter?