Every year on February 2nd millions of people await the arrival of a groundhog and his shadow. In the United States and Canada a groundhog rises from its burrow to “foretell” the future of our seasons, winter and spring. The date falls between the winter solstice and spring equinox. This is important to note because it is said in folk legend that if the groundhog is to see his shadow there will be 6 more weeks of winter but if he does not see his shadow then spring would arrive early that year. Different cultures however view it a bit differently, the Celts for example see groundhog day as a birthing of new farm animals and a good crop year. 

Groundhog day originated in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where German immigrants migrated over and instead of a groundhog , they relied on the weather predictions from a badger, the animal relied on varied based on the region you were living in. During the middle ages it was common for people to believe the bear and the badger would awake from their hibernation just to appear on the day of the groundhog.

 When asked about their view and opinion on groundhogs day this student from Woodbridge Senior High School says “I think it’s a superstition, a fun traditional holiday, but I don’t think there’s much truth to it.” While another student says “I’m not sure if there is any truth to this groundhog but I do love seeing everyone gather around to see whether he sees his shadow or not.” 

This groundhog has gained a bit of a huge following being named “Punxsutawney Phil” and has thousands of people waiting for his appearance every year. 

Mark your calendars for February 2nd to see what this groundhog has to say about the upcoming spring season!