BANNER ELK, N.C. (WTVD) -- In Banner Elk, the annual Woolly Worm Festival returned with a bang after being canceled last year due to Hurricane Helene.

Over 20,000 attendees gathered to watch woolly worm caterpillars race up strings, a quirky tradition that doubles as a weather forecast.

The 13 bands on the worms' coats are believed to represent the 13 weeks of winter. Black bands signal snow, while brown bands indicate milder conditions.

This year's winning worm, Billy, predicted an early snowfall, giving locals and visitors a unique glimpse into what winter might hold.

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