Cleveland television meteorologist Dick Goddard helped create the Woollybear Festival around the folklore that the caterpillar’s orange and black bands can offer clues about the coming winter. The tradition grew into a major one-day community event and continues as a tribute to Goddard’s broadcasting legacy and love of animals.
Downtown Vermilion hosts the Woollybear 500 caterpillar race, costume contests, live entertainment and the large Wonderful Wacky Woollybear Parade. Festival areas are centered around Victory Park and Exchange Park, with food, craft booths and merchant activity spread through the historic downtown streets.