Just 11 days away, on February 2, millions will tune into their television to celebrate Groundhog Day. The annual event revolves around the groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, and his shadow as he emerges from his stump. The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club puts on the ceremony at Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania.
Starting at daybreak, the Inner Circle, a group of local dignitaries, move through the crowd in their famous tuxedos and top hats to the stage. The club president gently taps on the stump with a cane, which lures out the famous Punxsutawney Phil. Once Punxsutawney Phil emerges from his stump, the focus shifts to the groundhog’s shadow.
According to folklore, if Phil sees his shadow, winter will continue for six more weeks. If not, an early spring is on the way.
The tradition started in 1876 in the small town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, with the first mention of Groundhog Day in the local newspaper. Since then it has seen massive growth, with up to 30,000 people in attendance at Gobbler’s Knob to watch Punxsutawney Phil. Groundhog day fills headlines, people share their predictions, and millions of others choose to tune in on TV or social media.
Phil has predicted six more weeks of winter 108 times and an early spring just 21 times, at a reported accuracy of just 39%. Though Phil’s predictions are not always accurate, Groundhog Day is seen as a cherished tradition regardless of whether you are hoping for six more weeks of winter or an early spring.
