Groundhog Day

Groundhog Day is a holiday which occurs on February 2, based on the concept that if a groundhog emerges without seeing his shadow on that day, it predicts an early spring. If the rodent sees his shadow and retreats into the hole, winter will last another six weeks.

The concept, and idea of a groundhog as a weather forecaster, comes from German settlers in Pennsylvania (in either the 18th or 19th centuries). Thus, in Pennsylvania, many Groundhog Day celebrations are essentially cultural festivals embracing German heritage, language, and food. Across the United States of America, however, the day is primarily seen as a moment of anticipation while awaiting the groundhog's result (a task now largely delegated to Punxsutawney Phil, also of Pennsylvania).