Hanna City, IL – It’s a tradition in Central Illinois! Since 1993, Wildlife Prairie Park’s famous groundhog, Gertie, has been predicting the weather on February 2nd every year. Will she see her shadow and give us 6 more weeks of winter or is it time for an early spring? Join the Park on February 2nd, at 6:00 am for the annual Gertie the Groundhog Celebration!
An exciting morning agenda leads up to Gertie’s appearance at sunrise, approximately 7:00 am. Park staff will talk about the history of Groundhog Day and present interesting facts about groundhogs, a local musician, Barry Cloyd, will teach everyone the song, “Wake Up, Gertie”, and Andrew Rand, being the honorary mayor for the day, will share the big announcement. Admission to the park is FREE from 6:00 am to 9:00 am. Regular Park hours and admission apply after 9:00 am. Gertie will also predict this year’s Super Bowl winner as well.
Following Gertie’s weather and Super Bowl predictions, plan to get your picture taken with Gertie or walk the Merrill Woods Trail. Head over to the Park’s stunning Hespell Deck for a buffet style breakfast. The room features three walls of windows opening up to the Bison and Elk pasture. Breakfast is $13 for adults and $11 for children ages 3-12. Reservations can be made ahead of time by calling 309-676-0998 and walk-ins are welcome.
Wildlife Prairie Park is a 501c3 not for profit 1,800-acre zoological park located just 10 miles west of Peoria, IL in Hanna City. The Park’s mission encompasses conservation, education, and recreation development in this unique habitat in the Midwest.
