Groundhog Day occurs on February 2 each year. Arriving at the midway point between the winter solstice and spring equinox, it launches a celebration of Candlemas.
Punxsutawney Phil, a resident of Punxsutawney, PA, has predicted the weather since 1887. Men who volunteer as a part of the Inner Circle to care for him.
Believers feel that whether or not the groundhog sees its shadow indicates how much longer winter will last. If Phil sees his shadow, it suggests six more weeks of winter. If the groundhog doesn't see its shadow, spring will arrive early.
Today Phil did not see his shadow at 7:25 am. This created cheers from a crowd who participated under a clear sky and 21 degree temperature.
German immigrants brought the tradition of Groundhog Day in the late 1800s. At that time members of Groundhog Lodges, meant for socializing with others and enjoying meals, planned the "unburrowing" ceremony. They originally used badgers or bears as their forecasters since both animals hibernate and awaken when days become longer and the sun's angle becomes higher.
Celebrate! Spring is coming soon.
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