Buckeye Chuck Prepares for His 47th Annual Forecast in Marion, Ohio

Ohio’s Most Famous Weather Whisperer Returns for Groundhog Day 2026

MARION, OH — Ohioans, bundle up your hopes and dust off your winter boots—because one of the state’s most beloved traditions is about to pop out of the burrow once again. Buckeye Chuck, Ohio’s official weather‑predicting groundhog and undisputed champion of early‑morning celebrity appearances, is gearing up for his 47th annual Groundhog Day forecast on Monday, February 2, 2026.

This year, the legendary marmot will make his grand emergence at the Marion County Fairgrounds Colosseum from 7 to 8 a.m., where fans can gather in person to witness the moment Ohio’s seasonal fate is sealed. The celebration is hosted by iHeartMedia Marion’s 1490 WMRN, in partnership with the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, whose century‑long commitment to science and discovery adds an extra layer of wonder to the morning’s festivities. The event is proudly sponsored by Pillar Credit Union.

A Shadowy Tradition With a Bright Spirit

According to folklore, if Buckeye Chuck spots his shadow at sunrise, Ohioans can expect six more weeks of winter. If not, spring may be just around the corner. Whether you’re rooting for sunshine or secretly hoping for a few more snow days, the excitement is the same: Buckeye Chuck’s prediction is a statewide moment of joy, suspense, and good‑natured debate.

And for those who can’t make it to the Colosseum, the event will be broadcast live on 1490 WMRN and streamed on Buckeye Chuck’s Facebook Fan Page, ensuring fans across Ohio can join the fun from wherever they are.

A Celebration With Heart

Buckeye Chuck isn’t just forecasting the weather—he’s helping forecast hope. This year, he’s calling on fans to support the St. Vincent DePaul Food Pantry, inviting attendees to bring cash donations or non‑perishable food items to help local families in need. As a thank‑you, the first 100 donors will receive an exclusive “iHeart Buckeye Chuck” T‑shirt, courtesy of Hessler’s Screen Printing and additional partners.

It’s a chance for Ohioans to celebrate tradition while giving back to the community—a combination Buckeye Chuck would surely approve of.

About the Cleveland Museum of Natural History

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History illuminates the world around us and inspires visitors to engage with the natural forces that shape their lives. Since its founding in 1920, the Museum has pioneered scientific research to advance knowledge across diverse fields of study and used its outstanding collections, which encompass millions of artifacts and specimens, to deepen the public’s understanding of the dynamic connections between humans and nature. Through its Natural Areas Program, the Museum stewards more than 12,500 acres of protected ecosystems across northern Ohio. A community gathering place, educational center, and research institution, the Museum is a vital resource that serves Cleveland and the nation. For more information, visit CMNH.org.

Event Details

WHAT: Groundhog Day with Buckeye Chuck — his 47th annual weather prediction Hosted by 1490 WMRN and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History Sponsored by Pillar Credit Union

WHEN: Monday, February 2, 2026 7–8 a.m.

WHERE: Marion County Fairgrounds Colosseum 220 E Fairground St. Marion, OH 43302

MEDIA: Members of the media are encouraged to attend. For promotional inquiries, contact Chris Kelly at ChrisKelly@iheartmedia.com or 419‑610‑3223.

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