In 1992, something astonishing happened in the historic city of Woodstock, Illinois. People came to town and roped off the picturesque city square, moved all sorts of equipment into the park and started playing the Pennsylvania Polka, over and over and over again

They were filming a movie that has become a favorite of young and old for almost 30 years, and the city gathers each year to remember the fun and celebrate the special community that Woodstock has always been. We've had visitors from as far away as Australia, celebrities from the Groundhog Day movie and local media and everyone agrees that this festival is a great way to shake off the gloom of Winter, if just for a few days.

Schedule of Events:

5:00 pm - 5:30 pm: Children's Groundhog Storytime

Bring the kids! They will enjoy hearing stories about groundhogs and making a groundhog craft.

Woodstock Public Library is presenting the event in the Courthouse Center on the Square

6:00 pm: Welcoming of the Groundhog

Woodstock Willie will be making a grand appearance to kick off the weekend's festivities.

Theatre 121 cast will premiere a few songs from Groundhog Day the Musical.

This FREE event will be in the Event Center on the top floor of the Courthouse Center on the Square. Elevator entrance is on the west side on Throop Street.

There will be a cash bar.

6:30 pm - 7:30 pm: Groundhog Trivia

How well do you know the movie Groundhog Day? Craig Krandel will test your knowledge for fun and prizes.

Join us in the Event Center on the top floor of the Courthouse Center on the Woodstock Square. There is an elevator on the west side of the building on Throop Street. The event is FREE. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

6:30 pm - 9:00 pm: Groundhog Paint Along

Our artist will demonstrate how to create your perfect Groundhog masterpiece from start to finish in this step by step demonstration. Your reward is a completed work of art with your own unique style. No experience necessary.  Painters must be 16 and over.  You can bring in your own snacks. No alcoholic beverages.