Unadilla, the groundhog capital of Nebraska, celebrates with annual festival
UNADILLA, Neb. (KLKN) – Unadilla, home to 296 residents, is quiet for most of the year.
But on Groundhog Day, Nebraskans come together to see Groundhog Billie, the village’s beloved taxidermied groundhog, make a prediction.
“My grandpa started my love for Groundhog Day at a young age, and I’ve loved it ever since,” said Brody Brandt, who has attended the festival since he was four.
📍Unadilla
I’ll be at the Groundhog Capital of Nebraska all morning as Groundhog Billie gets ready for her big moment! @Channel8ABC pic.twitter.com/7chVGPWZkR— annie elming (@AnnElming) February 2, 2024
The 36th annual Groundhog Day celebration begins Saturday. Festivities include photo ops with Groundhog Billie, live music and a parade.
Dan Anderson, the owner of Nitty Gritty Gas and Thrift, said local business owners see an economic boost during the festival.
“By far the biggest day we have throughout the year revenue-wise,” Anderson said. “It’s crowded from morning until evening and it’s just a good time.”
A full itinerary for the festival can be found HERE.
Billie and the sunrise 🧡
📸: @AnnElming pic.twitter.com/g96wDXcKlP
— Jessica Blum (@JessicaBlumWx) February 2, 2024
