On Feb. 2, from Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Penn., Punxsutawney Phil will make his 123rd prediction* as to whether winter is almost over or if there’s still more to come. Suppose Phil, the world’s most famous groundhog — a member of the marmot family, Marmota monax, also known as woodchucks or whistle pigs, for the high-pitched sound they make — sees his shadow. In that case, we’re in for another six weeks of wintery weather.
While Groundhog Day festivities may sound like some small, quaint tradition, the holiday is actually quite a big to-do, especially after the making of Bill Murray’s 1993 movie of the same name. According to John Hallman of the Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center, a regular turnout for the ceremony before the movie’s release was a solid five to 8,000 people. The year Murray attended, the number of participants soared to more than 30,000, and has remained robust ever since.
Want to have your own Groundhog Day celebration? Phil comes out to make his prediction at daybreak, about 7:25 a.m. But be warned, there are many imposter groundhogs trying to get into the spotlight. Make sure you’re seeing the real McCoy and check out coverage of the ceremony at the official Punxsutawney Groundhog Club website — where you’ll also find Groundhog Day activities, Groundhog Day Poetry and a recipe for Groundhog Cookies.
And if Groundhog Day isn’t for you? You can satisfy your inner scrooge with a helping of Woodchuck Pie or Groundhog Stew. To each his own.
Visit groundhog facts, habitat, and history to learn more about this rather large rodent.
There’s even a great old Appalachian song called “Groundhog.” However you celebrate, Happy Groundhog Day!
Check to see if Punxsutawney Phil spied his shadow and if he predicts six more weeks of winter.
