NATIONAL DAYPOP CULTURE & LIFESTYLE

National Groundhog Day

Join in the fun of this unique tradition with a rich history that brings communities together.

FEB2

Tuesday, February 2Every year on February 2

days to go

Roots: First celebrated in 1887
Vibe: A mix of fun, folklore, and community spirit
Also on Feb 2: World Play Your Ukulele Day · World Wetlands Day · Heavenly Hash Day
Hashtag: #NationalGroundhogDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Watch the forecast

Tune in to see the groundhog's prediction and guess whether spring is near.

WITH FRIENDS

Make your own prediction

Everyone guesses: six more weeks of winter or an early spring, then check the groundhog.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Decorate with groundhogs

Cut out groundhog shapes for the classroom and let everyone vote on the prediction.

Plan ahead

National Groundhog Day is observed on February 2 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Feb 2this year

2027Tue, Feb 2

2028Wed, Feb 2

2029Fri, Feb 2

2030Sat, Feb 2

2031Sun, Feb 2

2032Mon, Feb 2

2033Wed, Feb 2

2034Thu, Feb 2

2035Fri, Feb 2

2036Sat, Feb 2

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Punxsutawney Phil made his 140th prediction in 2026

Approximately 30,000Visitors attend the celebration each year

The story

Groundhog Day originates from an ancient European celebration known as Candlemas Day, where clergy would bless candles for the remainder of winter. German immigrants brought the tradition to the United States, specifically to Pennsylvania, where it evolved into the beloved Groundhog Day. The first official celebration occurred in 1887, marking the day as an annual event in Punxsutawney.

Read the full story

Punxsutawney Phil, the most famous groundhog, is said to predict the weather for the remaining weeks of winter. According to tradition, if he sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter; if not, an early spring is anticipated. This folklore has attracted thousands of visitors to the small town, transforming it into a lively hub of celebration each February.

On February 2, the town of Punxsutawney comes alive early in the morning with festivities, including music, food, and entertainment. The event culminates at sunrise when Phil emerges from his burrow. The 2026 celebration marked the 140th prediction, and the excitement is palpable as locals and tourists alike gather to witness this annual ritual. The unique blend of folklore and community spirit makes this day special.

While Groundhog Day is primarily celebrated in the U.S., similar traditions exist worldwide. For example, in Germany, the hedgehog is used as a weather predictor. This delightful folklore continues to inspire joy, capturing the essence of winter and the hope for spring, making it a cherished tradition across cultures.

Did you know?

Phil's Predictions

Punxsutawney Phil's accuracy rate is around 39%, according to the National Weather Service.

A Famous Movie

The 1993 film 'Groundhog Day,' starring Bill Murray, popularized the holiday and introduced it to a wider audience.

Groundhog's Day Weather

The day often sees cold temperatures, making it a true winter celebration.

Phil's Lifespan

Punxsutawney Phil has a lifespan of around 6-8 years in captivity.

Groundhog Day Events

The event in Punxsutawney includes live music, local vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Phil's Home

Punxsutawney Phil resides in the Punxsutawney Memorial Library during the off-season.

International Celebrations

Various countries have their own versions of weather prediction traditions, often tied to local folklore.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesGroundhog Day is primarily celebrated in the U.S., especially in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
DEGermanySimilar traditions in Germany use hedgehogs as weather predictors on Candlemas.
CACanadaIn Canada, Wiarton Willie is the local groundhog who also predicts the weather each February.
GBUnited KingdomAlthough not widely celebrated, some regions in the UK recognize similar folklore regarding weather predictions.
AUAustraliaIn Australia, Groundhog Day is known, but it has less cultural significance compared to the Northern Hemisphere.
SESwedenSwedish traditions include weather omens, but they vary significantly from the Groundhog Day customs.