Groundhog Day Festivities

Groundhog Day is one of the stranger holidays celebrated in the United States, but it also is one of the coolest. Every year on February 2nd, a groundhog will emerge from its burrow into the brisk winter morning.  If the groundhog sees its shadow, it will run back into it’s burrow, signifying another 6 weeks of winter.  If the groundhog doesn’t see its shadow, it will run along, signifying a shortened winter.  The most famous groundhog is Punxsutawney Phil, who resides in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.

So this morning, a crowd of nearly 40,000 gathered in Gobbler’s Knob as a group of old men in hats and tuxedos (also known as the “inner circle”) examined the rodent’s movements intently.  Unfortunately, Phil saw his shadow and ran back into his burrow, signifying a long winter.

…So don’t put those hats and gloves away just yet, Brunonia.  We must brace for the cold, for the groundhog has spoken.

— Matt Klimerman