Famous local bass makes his own prediction for early spring vs. longer winter

You’ve heard of ​​Punxsutawney Phil, but Ohio has a different prediction method for spring. The 11th annual Winterfest took place on January 31st at Buckeye Lake where rather than a groundhog, the festival features Ohio’s very own Benny the Bass. 

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Festival attendees joined Benny just before sunrise at North Shore Park to see if he would “take the bait” predicting an early spring, or refuse, and doom us to six more weeks of winter. We’re pleased to report that Benny took the bait this year. After the prediction, festival goers celebrated the impending end of winter with a cold plunge, fireworks, live music, food trucks, drink specials, and art shows.

​​Punxsutawney Phil on the other hand, saw his shadow and predicted six more weeks of winter. Only time will tell us which animal is correct! If you missed Buckeye Lake Winterfest this year, it’s always held on the last Saturday in January—mark your calendar!

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