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The largest Groundhog Day celebration in the United States takes place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania where as many as 35, 000 people have been known to gather at Gobbler's Knob in hopes to see Punxsutawney Phil emerge from his makeshift burrow. The crowd waits eagerly for the appearance of their beloved groundhog to determine if there will be another long stretch of winter weather ahead of them.

During the 18th century when European settlers arrived in Pennsylvania they continued to pay homage to various customs, folklore and tradition. One such custom was referred to as Candlemas Day. Candlemas Day was known to occur between Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox (40 days after Christmas). During this time if the sun shone "fair and bright" there would be six more weeks of winter. In Europe, a hedgehog was observed as it came out of its burrow. However, as the tradition continued in Pennsylvania, the groundhog, which closely resembles the hedgehog, was determined to be a more suitable animal for Candlemas Day.

Originally, Groundhog Day, as it is now known, was a small quiet affair that took place in the woods outside of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. But in 1886 Punxsutawney was declared the weather capital of the world and as such the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club named the weather-watching groundhog "Punxsutawney Phil, Seer of Seers, Sage of Sages, Prognosticator of Prognosticators and Weather Prophet Extraordinary." The naming of the groundhog led to yearly newspaper coverage, increased participation and eventually a full fledged celebratory day of events.

Groundhog Day at Gobbler's Knob is a celebration unlike any other. Throughout the year Phil is treated with great care and lives in a climate controlled home. On February 2nd he is relocated to an artificial burrow on stage, where he remains until the exact moment arrives. At precisely 7:25 am Phil is prompted to exit his burrow while the town eagerly awaits Phil's prediction. Ninety percent of the time Phil sees his shadow and returns to his burrow for six more weeks of cold winter weather. During those times when Phil does not see his shadow he stays outside of his burrow indicating that winter will soon come to an end.

Festivities begin in Punxsutawney two to three days prior to Groundhog Day. Ice carving contests, magicians, musical groups, face painting and fireworks make for a fun and exciting time for the whole family. It's one celebration you don't want to miss!

Learn more about this author, Krista Tannahill.
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