Groundhog Day

Groundhog Day Facts & Quotes

• The tradition of using an animal to predict the weather was brought to Pennsylvania by German immigrants. Groundhogs were used unlike in Germany where they instead used badgers and bears. The original German holiday Candlemas Day occurs on February 2nd between the Winter solstice and the spring equinox. If the sun comes out on that day, it means there will be six more weeks of winter.
• The Groundhog emerges from his hole after a long winter sleep to look for his shadow. If it is sunny and he sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter and he will return to his hole. If it is cloudy and he does not see his shadow, he will stay above ground as spring is on its way.
• The first Groundhog Day was celebrated on February 2, 1887 in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. A local newspaper editor, Clymer Freas, convinced his friends-known as the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, for their love of hunting groundhogs - to visit Gobbler's Knob. After observing a groundhog emerge from his hole, they determined that seeing his shadow was a bad omen and meant there were at least six more weeks of winter.
• Groundhogs, otherwise known as woodchucks, are rodents. They hibernate throughout the winter.
• Turn your face to the sun and the shadows fall behind you. - Maori Proverb.

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Groundhog Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Visit Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania and see Phil the groundhog in person.
• Watch the movie Groundhog Day (1993) starring Bill Murray.
• Host a Groundhog Day party. Record the emergence of Phil from his hole and play it back at the party. Several days before the party, have all of the attendees send in their prediction regarding whether Phil will see his shadow. Have small prizes for the winners.
• Watch Phil emerge from his hole live via television.
• Make a bet with yourself: If he sees his shadow - complete one chore, if he doesn't see his shadow - treat yourself to something fun.

Groundhog Day References and Related Sites