Groundhog Day is celebrated in the USA and Canada every year on Feb. 2. A groundhog is a small animal in the rodent family (related to mice, squirrels, etc.) that is native to the Northern and Eastern regions of North America.
The most famous mascot for Groundhog Day is a groundhog named Punxsutawney Phil who lives in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, approximately an hour and a half northeast of Pittsburgh. On the morning of Feb. 2, everyone in the US anxiously awaits to see Phil come out of his burrow (his home in the ground). When he comes out of his burrow, if he sees his shadow winter will soon end. This is great news for most people! If he does not see his shadow, then he will go back into his burrow and winter will continue for another 6 weeks. According to Wikipedia, groundhogs are accurate around 80% of the time.
Where does this very strange tradition come from? Well, there are many different theories. Some say it comes from a Scottish tradition, others say it comes from German folklore, yet others have different explanations. It might not sound rational, but it’s certainly a fun way to look forward to the end of winter!
Be sure to watch the news on Feb. 2 for live coverage of Punxsutawney Phil coming out of his burrow! For more info about Groundhog Day, visit www.groundhog.org.