Unadilla’s Groundhog Day will look much different this year. Unadilla is Nebraska’s Groundhog Day Capitol and usually their first Saturday in February is full of activity. Due to COVID-19, the celebration is scaled down this year.
Spokesperson and former Groundhog Day Queen Barb Wilhelm tells KLIN News the only event this year will be virtual. Unadilla Bill, a taxidermy mount, will be brought outside around 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 2nd. According to lore, if others see his shadow we will have six more weeks of winter. If there is no shadow, spring is right around the corner. The ceremony will be broadcast live on their Facebook page.
Another change will be to their annual Groundhog King and Queen competition. That typically is a fundraiser for their Fire and Rescue Department and the Community Foundation. Wilhelm says, “This year, if you want to donate $5,000, which is what about each candidate usually raises, you can be a king or queen for life”.
For 30-plus years, Bill has been front and center during the annual celebration. Bill will retire after this year and Unadilla Billie will be taking his place in future celebrations.
Wilhelm says the annual event typically brings a crowd of about 500 people to their community. The celebration consists of bake sales, craft fairs, club and organization events, a parade and more.
The community is hoping for a full celebration in 2022.
Photo courtesy of Bob Brandt.