Groundhog Day
Books and Movies
| For Adults:
Films:
|
For Kids:
|
Links
The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club |
History
When the first settlers arrived in the area known today as Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, they brought with them from Europe a centuries-old tradition known as Candlemas Day.
On Candlemas Day, clergy would bless candles and distribute them to the people. The weather on this day was considered an important indicator of the weather to come. If it was sunny, an animal (traditionally the hedgehog) would cast a shadow, indicating six more weeks of winter. Because no hedgehogs could be found in America, the groundhog was used instead, starting a new tradition.
Today, we call each February 2nd "Groundhog Day" and it wouldn't be the same without Punxsutawney Phil, the world's most famous groundhog! If Phil sees his shadow when he comes out of his burrow in Punxsutawney, we're in for six more weeks of winter weather. If not, we'll have an early Spring.
Read more about the history of Groundhog Day and Punxsutawney Phil
Denver Public Library Online ©
Updated: January 08, 2008
