North Carolina families gathered at the Carolina Classic Fair this week to watch a truly unique attraction: Twiggy, the waterskiing squirrel. The small gray squirrel, trained by local owner Chuck Best Jr., glided across the fair’s lake, drawing cheers and smiles from children and adults alike.
Family‑focused entertainment with a purpose
Beyond the novelty of a squirrel on skis, Twiggy’s act carries a heartfelt message. Best explained that the performance is a tribute to his father, who tragically lost his life in a boating accident in 1997 while rescuing Best’s grandfather. “My mom put a life jacket on the squirrel to promote water safety,” Best said, noting that the life jacket has become a signature part of the show.
The safety theme resonates with fairgoers, many of whom are parents looking for wholesome, educational entertainment for their children. By showcasing a tiny animal safely navigating water, the act subtly reinforces the importance of wearing life jackets and practicing caution on lakes and rivers.
From local fair to regional tours
After the final performance on Tuesday night, Twiggy will travel to South Carolina for a new series of shows, expanding the reach of the water‑safety message. Best hopes the squirrel’s growing popularity will inspire more families to prioritize safety on the water, especially during the summer months when boating activity spikes.
Since debuting several years ago, Twiggy has appeared in movies, television programs, and even music videos, turning a local fair act into a national curiosity. Yet, for Best, the core of the venture remains the personal tribute to his father and the desire to keep other families safe.
Community response
Fair attendees praised the performance as both entertaining and meaningful. “It’s like training a dog or cat,” Best remarked, describing the dedication required to teach a squirrel such a skill. Visitors left the lake area with photos, smiles, and a renewed awareness of water safety practices.
Local officials and safety organizations have also taken note, highlighting Twiggy’s role in public‑education campaigns. The North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources plans to feature Twiggy in upcoming water‑safety outreach events throughout the state.
Looking ahead
As Twiggy heads south, the community looks forward to future appearances at regional fairs and school events. The combination of light‑hearted fun and a serious safety message exemplifies the kind of family‑oriented programming that enriches local festivals and reinforces core values of responsibility and care.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
