Overview
Groundhog Day is celebrated on February 2, and is a fun way to “predict” the arrival of Spring. According to legend, if it is cloudy when the groundhog emerges from its burrow, Spring will arrive early. However, if it’s sunny when the groundhog emerges, and he sees his shadow, he will retreat back into his burrow and Winter will continue for 6 more weeks.
Details
In the United States, this celebration began as a Pennsylvania German custom in the 18th and 19th centuries, grown out of ancient Europe weather folklore. Today, the largest Groundhog Day celebration is held in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania where crowds as large as 40,000 have gathered to celebrate the holiday since 1886.
Trivia
- Punxsutawney Phil is a groundhog resident of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. He lives in the town library with his “wife” Phyllis.
- According to fans, Punxsutawney Phil is given a sip of a magical elixir each summer to extend his life for 7 years. Thus, he has made weather predictions for over 123 years.
- According to records kept since 1887, Punxsutawney Phil’s weather predictions have only been correct 39% of the time.
Celebrating Suggestions
- Preview Spring menu items for the week leading up to Groundhog Day
- Have guests vote whether they think if Phil will see his shadow, and pull a winner from the “correct” batch (winner receives a gift card).
Check out our Marketing Holiday Calendar for more dates to celebrate!
