Vermilion, OH — The 53rd Annual Woollybear Festival is scheduled to take place on Sunday, October 5, 2025, in downtown Vermilion. Hosted by the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce and FOX 8, the event is expected to draw thousands of attendees, continuing its tradition as one of Ohio’s largest single-day festivals.
Founded by longtime FOX 8 meteorologist and animal advocate Dick Goddard in 1972, the Woollybear Festival celebrates the folklore surrounding the woollybear caterpillar and its reputed ability to predict winter weather based on the color of its stripes.
The 2025 festival will include a full lineup of family-friendly attractions:
- The Woollybear 500 Caterpillar Race, featuring live caterpillars competing in a crowd-favorite event
- The Animal Look-a-Like Costume Contest, encouraging participants to dress pets in woollybear-inspired outfits
- A Kids Costume Contest and the selection of the 2025 Woollybear King and Queen
- The Woollybear Parade, featuring community groups, floats, bands, and more
- Live music from Todd Meany & the Ace Molar Band
- Appearances by FOX 8 news personalities
- FOX 8’s official winter weather prediction, based on the woollybear caterpillar’s markings
- A vendor village with food trucks, crafters, and local merchants
The festival is free to attend and will be held rain or shine. Road closures and parking guidance are expected to be announced in the weeks leading up to the event.
More information, including event updates and schedules, is available at www.woollybearfestival.com or by contacting the Vermilion Chamber of Commerce at [email protected] or (440) 967-4477.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
Time: All-day event
Location: Downtown Vermilion, OH
Admission: Free