2018 Schedule Travel Guide Groundhog

2018 Schedule Travel Guide Groundhog Groundhog Day 2018 Your Guide to Celebrating This Quirky Tradition Groundhog Day celebrated on February 2nd is a delightful blend of folklore weather forecasting and good oldfashioned fun Whether youre a seasoned Groundhog Day enthusiast or a curious newcomer theres no better time to join the festivities Heres your guide to experiencing this unique tradition in 2018 1 The Basics What is it Groundhog Day is a tradition where a groundhog typically named Punxsutawney Phil emerges from its burrow on February 2nd If it sees its shadow legend has it that well have six more weeks of winter If not spring is said to be just around the corner Where did it come from Groundhog Day originated from a German tradition called Candlemas Day where hedgehogs were used to predict the length of winter The tradition made its way to Pennsylvania where the groundhog was deemed the more appropriate predictor 2 Celebrating Groundhog Day The Main Event Punxsutawney Phils Prediction The biggest draw is the annual Groundhog Day celebration at Gobblers Knob in Punxsutawney Pennsylvania The festivities start in the early morning hours with a parade followed by the groundhogs emergence from its burrow You can watch the event live on TV or online Alternative Celebrations While Punxsutawney Phil is the most famous other groundhogs across the country also make their predictions on February 2nd Check local news for events near you DIY Fun Host your own Groundhog Day party Decorate with groundhogthemed decorations serve snacks like groundhog burrows pretzel sticks with cheese dip and play Groundhog Day trivia 3 Travel Tips for Groundhog Day Plan Ahead Book accommodations and transportation well in advance especially if youre planning to visit Punxsutawney Dress Warm February in Pennsylvania can be chilly Pack layers and be prepared for snow or 2 ice Embrace the Crowd Groundhog Day celebrations draw large crowds Be patient and arrive early to secure a good spot Take Pictures Capture the memorable moments of the festivities from the groundhogs emergence to the playful crowd 4 Beyond the Prediction Enjoy the Atmosphere Groundhog Day is as much about the atmosphere as the prediction itself Embrace the camaraderie the lighthearted fun and the unique tradition Learn about Wildlife Use this day to learn more about groundhogs and their role in the ecosystem Reflect on Winter Whether the prediction is for six more weeks of winter or an early spring Groundhog Day is a time to reflect on the season and anticipate the coming changes 5 Resources Punxsutawney Groundhog Club httpswwwpunxsutawneyorg Groundhog Day Forecast httpswwwalmanaccomcontentgroundhogday Groundhog Day Events Search local news websites for events in your area Groundhog Day offers a unique opportunity to embrace a playful tradition and celebrate the arrival of spring even if winter has a bit more staying power Enjoy the festivities