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Woollybear Festival

The Woollybear Festival is a long-standing one-day event in downtown Vermilion, Ohio, celebrating the folklore of the woollybear caterpillar's ability to predict winter weather. This free community celebration features a large parade, caterpillar races, and various costume contests for children and pets.

Date
Oct 4, 2026
Location
Vermilion
Status
Upcoming
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Woollybear Festival

Event summary

Highlights

  • Wonderful, Wacky Woollybear Parade
  • Woollybear 500 caterpillar races
  • Official winter weather prediction at 3:30 p.m.
  • Crowning of the Woollybear King and Queen
Established in 1973 by late FOX 8 meteorologist Dick Goddard, the festival honors the tradition and folklore surrounding the woollybear caterpillar. Originally held in Birmingham, the event moved to Vermilion in 1981 and is now organized by the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce in partnership with FOX 8. The festival typically draws thousands of visitors to the downtown area for a full day of family-oriented activities.

Main attractions include the Wonderful, Wacky Woollybear Parade, the Woollybear 500 caterpillar race, and the World’s Greatest Kids’ Race. Participants can also enter animal lookalike and kids' costume contests or witness the crowning of the Woollybear King and Queen. A key event highlight is the official winter weather prediction, traditionally delivered by a meteorologist in the mid-afternoon.

The festival grounds host approximately 130 vendors offering food, crafts, and various services. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free to the public. Organizers recommend that attendees arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the full range of live entertainment and activities spread throughout the city.

Practical details

Location described by the source
Downtown Vermilion
www.morningjournal.com
Area for browsing nearby events
Vermilion
Organizer — source statement
The festival, presented by the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce and FOX 8
www.morningjournal.com
Admission — source statement
Admission is free.
www.morningjournal.com

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

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Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

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