Groundhog Day, celebrated on February 2, is a quirky tradition in North America. Rooted in the German custom of Candlemas, it involves a groundhog predicting the weather for the coming weeks. According to the legend, if the groundhog emerges from its burrow and sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If not, an early spring is expected. The most famous celebration takes place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, where “Punxsutawney Phil” makes the prediction. While rooted in folklore, Groundhog Day has become a lighthearted celebration of the changing seasons, blending weather forecasting with fun and community festivities.
Predicting the outcome of Groundhog Day is a fun mix of folklore and chance. If the groundhog sees its shadow, expect six more weeks of winter; no shadow signals an early spring. While scientifically unproven, it’s a fun tradition that sparks curiosity and excitement about the changing seasons. Turn it into a fun game with your family by having everyone make their predictions and then tune into the broadcast to watch Punxsutawney Phil make his prediction.
Every year my girls and I read several Groundhog Day books and we love to guess what Punxsutawney Phil will have to say about our weather forecast! Check out some of our favorite books and download these cute printables!
10 Sweet Stories:
1. Double Trouble Groundhog Day
2. Gretchen Groundhog, It’s Your Day!
3. Mr. Groundhog Wants the Day Off
4. A Garden for a Groundhog
5. Secret Of The First One Up
6. Groundhog Day
7. Geoffrey Groundhog Predicts the Weather
8. It’s Up to You, Griffin!
9. Groundhog Gets a Say
10. Gregory’s Shadow
Download your FREE printables here!
They’re a great way to learn about the tradition while enjoying creative, hands-on fun together. Have your kiddos predict with Punxsutawney Phil will have to say about the upcoming weather and then color the corresponding page!
Download and print today!
Do you think Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow this year?
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