Groundhog Day 2026: Fred and Willie to Predict Spring, Sam Not Participating

Groundhog Day festivities in Britain got an early start this year, but not every tradition will be upheld on Feb. 2, 2026. In a twist for the annual North American-style event, two weather-prophecy marmots — Fred and Willie — are set to make their traditional predictions about when spring will arrive, while Sam — a frequently featured prognosticating groundhog — will not be participating.

The event’s organisers in England welcomed attendees and local families who gathered at a community park to witness the furry forecasters’ moment in the spotlight. Groundhog Day, observed each year across parts of the Northern Hemisphere, is based on folklore that the behaviour of a groundhog on this date can offer a prediction about the timing of spring’s arrival. If the animal sees its shadow and returns to its burrow, tradition holds that winter will persist for six more weeks. Otherwise, an early spring is expected.

Fred and Willie took centre stage during the morning’s event, with handlers encouraging the animals to emerge from their enclosures. While the precise outcome of their predictions will be announced following the event, onlookers expressed enthusiasm about the chance to take part in a light-hearted tradition that blends North American custom with local community celebration.

Sam’s absence this year was confirmed by event organisers, who said the groundhog — often a crowd favourite in past festivals — is being given a break this season. Organisers emphasised that health and wellbeing are top priorities for the animals that participate in these public appearances, and that Sam would likely return for future ceremonies.

In addition to observing the groundhogs’ behaviour, attendees enjoyed food stalls, music and winter-themed activities geared toward families. The event also drew contrast with more formal meteorological forecasts, which rely on scientific data from weather services. Nonetheless, the charm of Groundhog Day folklore continues to appeal to people of all ages looking for a whimsical way to celebrate the changing of the seasons.

Groundhog Day’s origins trace back to Pennsylvania’s Punxsutawney Phil, whose annual prediction ceremony has become a widely covered cultural event. Similar celebrations have sprung up in other parts of the world, including the one in England where Fred and Willie are local ambassadors of the tradition.

As the festivities wrapped up and predictions were announced, participants noted that, regardless of the forecast, the gathering offered a festive way to bring communities together in the heart of winter. Whether or not an early spring is on the horizon, the event provided smiles, hot drinks and a touch of folklore to brighten the season.