Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, proudly holds the title of Groundhog Capital of the World, making it the ultimate destination to celebrate Groundhog Day. Our legendary groundhog, Jimmy, is known for his perfect record—he’s right 100% of the time! While the mayor sometimes struggles with interpreting “groundhogese,” Jimmy never fails to predict the weather with accuracy. 

Join us for a week of frosty fun leading up to Groundhog Day with Frozen Fest, a multi-day celebration leading up to Groundhog Day that promises excitement, laughter, and plenty of whimsical moments. Here’s a sneak peek into the festivities that await you:

A person is riding a dog sled pulled by seven dogs through a snowy area. Snow-covered trees and houses are visible in the background.

Sled Dog Demonstrations* 

Experience the thrill of sled dog racing as expert mushers showcase their incredible teams. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about this exciting sport and meet the adorable canine athletes. 

Groundhog Open Putt-Putt Bar Crawl

Get ready for a unique twist on mini-golf with the Groundhog Open Putt-Putt Bar Crawl. Explore Downtown Sun Prairie as you navigate creatively themed mini-golf holes set up at various bars and restaurants. Enjoy drinks, laughs, and friendly competition as you make your way through this one-of-a-kind event. It’s a fantastic way to explore Sun Prairie’s vibrant bar scene!

Four people wearing running bibs and winter attire pose with a person in a tan rodent costume wearing a blue vest and top hat outside a building.

Candlelit Snowshoe Hike* and the Hibernation Hustle

Embrace the beauty of winter with a peaceful candlelit snowshoe hike through Sun Prairie’s scenic trails. The soft glow of candles lights your path, creating a magical experience perfect for all ages. Get your heart pumping with the Hibernation Hustle, a fun run that encourages participants to shake off the winter blues and embrace the chilly season. It’s a great way to stay active while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Pancake Toss Breakfast

Start your day with Jimmy the Groundhog and a hearty breakfast at the Pancake Toss. This isn’t your average pancake breakfast—join in on the fun as Uncle Pancake tosses pancakes for people to catch. Delicious food and lively entertainment make this a morning event you won’t want to miss.

Cardboard Sled Classic 

Unleash your creativity and build the ultimate cardboard sled for this thrilling race! Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, the Cardboard Sled Classic promises laughs and excitement for everyone.

Puzzle Contest

For those who prefer indoor activities, the Puzzle Contest is a great way to test your problem-solving skills in a fun and competitive environment. Gather your friends and family for a fun challenge that will have everyone working together to complete their puzzles in record time.

Night at the Museum

Wrap up the week with a Night at the Museum. Celebrate Groundhog Day Eve in a truly special way at the Sun Prairie Historical Museum! Join us for an enchanting evening where you can meet Jimmy the Groundhog himself and dive into the rich history of Groundhog Day in Sun Prairie. 

Discover fascinating tales of Jimmy’s adventures, including his legendary journey into space! This interactive event is perfect for families and offers a unique opportunity to learn about the traditions that make this celebration so beloved. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with the community and celebrate our favorite furry forecaster!

So Much More

Frozen Fest offers an array of other activities and events that cater to all interests and ages. From Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides and Make-and-Take Crafts to Night at the Ice Rink with a Winter Biergarten, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Plus, weather permitting, come marvel at the incredible artistry on display at the *ice carving contest. Watch as talented artists transform blocks of ice into stunning sculptures right before your eyes. This mesmerizing competition is a feast for the senses and a perfect photo op!

Join the Fun!

Celebrate Groundhog Day and the whimsical prognostications of our legendary Jimmy at Sun Prairie’s Frozen Fest. With a week full of exciting events and activities, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out on the fun—visit Sun Prairie’s Frozen Fest page  for more details and to plan your visit.

* Weather permitting

I am Dannelle F. Gay, AKA The Traveling Cheesehead, and hail from Sun Prairie Wisconsin - Groundhog Capital of the World.

A Gen Xer with a Baby Boomer husband means we focus on 50+ travel and the life of the empty nesters when not spoiling our Australian Shepherd service dog: Tazuna.

SunBeam

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