January 7, 2026
Hammond, IN – Humane Indiana Wildlife invites the community to celebrate Groundhog Day early on Friday, January 31, with a family-friendly event benefiting local wildlife in need. The Groundhog Day Celebration will take place from 9 am to 2 pm and features a mix of tradition, education, food, vendors, and ambassador animal encounters – all in support of wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.
At the heart of the celebration is the beloved Shadow Showdown, where Humane Indiana Wildlife’s groundhog ambassador, Southshore Sally, will make her seasonal prediction and kick off the day’s festivities. As a non-releasable ambassador animal, she represents the importance of protecting native wildlife and educating the community about their role in Indiana’s ecosystem.
Adding to the family-friendly excitement, children will have the chance to meet a Bluey mascot, one of today’s most popular characters, during special meet-and-greet sessions that include story time led by local community dignitaries. These special guests will read to children and help foster a love of learning, nature, and community connection.
“This event goes beyond the excitement of Groundhog Day,” said Nicole Harmon, Senior Director of Wildlife Rehabilitation at Humane Indiana. “It’s an opportunity to connect people with wildlife, share important conservation messages, and support the lifesaving care we provide to thousands of injured and orphaned animals each year.”
Event Highlights Include:
9 am Doors Open
9:30-9:30 am Groundhog Unveiling: Will our furry forecaster see her shadow?
10-10:30 am Bluey Meet-n-Greet: Story Time & Pictures
10:45-11:30 am Groundhogs in Indiana: An educational presentation exploring these misunderstood mammals
11:30-12:30 pm Break Please enjoy our wildlife meet-n-greets, food trucks, and vendors
12:30-1 pm Bluey Meet-n-Greet: Story Time & Pictures
1-2 pm Mammals in Winter: Learn how native wildlife survives the cold months
All-Day Activities:
Wildlife Ambassador Animal Meet & Greets
Local vendors and exhibitors
Food trucks serving a variety of options throughout the event
Proceeds from the event directly support Humane Indiana Wildlife, helping fund rehabilitation, medical care, and public education efforts for native wildlife across the region.
“Groundhog Day is a fun tradition, but it also gives us an opportunity to remind people that wildlife needs our care year-round,” said Brian Fitzpatrick, CEO of Humane Indiana. “Every ticket purchased helps ensure injured and orphaned animals receive the second chances they deserve.”
The Groundhog Day Celebration is open to all ages and designed to be both entertaining and educational, making it an ideal winter outing for families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts. Tickets and additional event details are available at www.HumaneIndiana.org/events or through Humane Indiana Wildlife’s Facebook page.
Support wildlife. Celebrate tradition. Join Humane Indiana Wildlife on January 31 for a meaningful and memorable Groundhog Day celebration.
About Humane Indiana The mission of Humane Indiana is protecting pets, preserving wildlife, and supporting a nurturing connection between animals and people. Humane Indiana helps injured, orphaned, or homeless animals annually through shelter and adoption services, a low-income veterinary clinic, pet food pantry, homelessness prevention programs, foster care, PAWS Resale, and a wildlife rehabilitation center. Learn more at www.humaneindiana.org and follow Humane Indiana on social media.