Groundhog Day Events in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

Groundhog Day is a special day. It's a day where we look to a small furry creature to tell us the weather. If there will be more of winter or spring sooner rather than later. In Punxsutawney, Penn., it is more than just that. It's a day to celebrate because we all look to the infamous Punxsutawney Phil for his weather forecast.

Schools are closed for a few days because of this national holiday, business are closed and many crowd around the small tree trunk where good old Phil lives just to determine whether or not this little guy will in fact see his shadow. Groundhog Day isn't just a one day celebration in this area, but a three-day event.

February 1st there are numerous events such as a magician, face painting, concerts and more. Of course what celebration isn't complete without food. Many of the town restaurants have specials and other events to pull in the business that this holiday offers. There are souvenirs, story telling, art shows and even a Tupperware presentation.

You can go to the historical society to find out more about the meaning of Groundhog Day as well as the town. You can watch a metal art competition, or try your luck in the Phil Shadow Chaser presented by the Punxsutawney Christian School. The events continue until midnight at the latest and begin as early as six am.

February 2nd is much like the first. This year it is the 122nd Trek to Gobbler's Knob for Phil's Official Prognostication. Where folks will gather around Phil's burrow to find out his prediction at daybreak. After seeing the cute little fellow, people can go have breakfast at any of the restaurants in town and take a look at the events they didn't get a chance to look at on the previous day.