Every fall, the town of Vermilion, Ohio, transforms into a vibrant hub of activity with the Woollybear Festival, drawing tens of thousands of visitors. The event centers around the woolly bear caterpillar, which local folklore claims can predict winter weather. This family-friendly festival features a variety of activities, from caterpillar races to a grand parade, making it a staple of the autumn season in Northeast Ohio.
Festival Highlights
The Woollybear Festival kicks off at 9 am at the local high school stadium with the YMCA’s World’s Greatest Kids Race. A key attraction is the parade, which begins at 1:30 pm at Grand Street, winding its way through Vermilion on Sandusky Street, South Street, and concluding at Decatur Street. This parade is notable for its inclusion of over 25 high school bands from across Ohio, along with various floats, vintage automobiles, and festival queens. Before the parade, children participate in the King and Queen Woollybear contest and the best Woolly Bear costume competition. Another popular event is the Woollybear 500 Race, starting at 5 pm, where local police and fire departments select woolly bears to race, adding an element of fun and competition to the festival.
Arts, Crafts, and Food
Victory Park and Main Street in Vermilion transform into bustling hubs with over 80 arts and crafts stalls and more than 45 food vendors. Visitors can browse unique handmade items and enjoy a variety of culinary delights. The festival also features live entertainment and merchant sales throughout the day.
Tickets and Parking
Admission to the Woollybear Festival is free, making it an accessible event for all. Parking is available throughout Vermilion, but streets close at 12:30 pm for the parade, so early arrival is recommended. Additional parking information and updates can be found on the festival’s official website.
Location and Infrastructure
Vermilion, a picturesque resort city, is well-equipped to handle the influx of visitors during the festival. Located approximately nine miles (14.5 km) north of the festival’s original location in Birmingham, Ohio, Vermilion offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The town features quaint shops, an old-fashioned soda fountain, and the scenic Lagoons residential area.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors can explore Vermilion’s sandy beaches, historic downtown, and the Vermilion River. The Mystic Belle, a small paddle wheeler, offers river cruises, providing a unique perspective of the town. For those interested in more outdoor activities, Vermilion is home to two golf courses and a variety of parks and nature trails.
History of the Woollybear Festival
The Woollybear Festival was founded in 1973 by Cleveland TV weatherman Dick Goddard. Initially held in Birmingham, Ohio, the festival started as a small event with about 2,000 attendees. As its popularity grew, attracting around 15,000 visitors, the festival moved to Vermilion to accommodate the larger crowds. Today, it is one of Ohio’s most anticipated fall events, drawing over 100,000 people annually.
