Essex Ed will make a public return on Sunday, Jan. 30 at 2 p.m., making his way up from Essex Boatworks on Ferry Street and up Main Street to take his post at the silent policeman.

As always, Ed’s identity is being closely guarded until he comes out. Last year, he arrived as a doctor in light of the pandemic.

The Essex Board of Trade, which sponsors the annual event, invites revelers to greet Ed with the traditional pot -and-pan noisemakers, festive groundhog gear, and this year, masks. For info, visit essexct.com/events or facebook.com/EssexBOT.