How to Tell If a Groundhog Sees Its Shadow
Since the 1840s, the groundhog has represented a symbol of spring, and every February 2 most of North America waits eagerly to see if the groundhog spots its own shadow. If it does, winter will continue for another 6 weeks. If it doesn't, then an early spring is around the corner.
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Instructions
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Take a trip to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania on February 2 to participate in the annual Groundhog Day festivities. The celebration begins before dawn, leading up to when the world's most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, is led from his cage to look for his shadow. The official proclamation is usually made by 7 a.m., with plenty of crowds and media coverage present.
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Watch the Groundhog Day celebration, and Punxsutawney Phil's proclamation, live on television every February 2. Most of the major television and news channels carry the event so that you can tell whether Phil saw his shadow in Pennsylvania that morning.
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Investigate other Groundhog Day celebrations across North America to tell whether each regional groundhog saw its own shadow. Many festivals are held across Canada, with the more famous fesivities taking place in Manitoba, Alberta and Ontario. American celebrations are held in a wide variety of locations, such as Florida, Georgia, Wisconsin and New York City. Along with the infamous Punxsutawney Phil, other groundhogs of note include Spanish Joe (Spanish, Ontario), Sir Walter Wally (Raliegh, North Carolina), Pardon Me Pete (Tampa, Florida), Brandon Bob (Brandon, Manitoba), Gary the Groundhog (Kleinburg, Ontario) and General Beauregard Lee, Ph.D., of Atlanta, Georgia.
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Read your local newspaper on the morning of February 3 for a full report on whether the groundhog saw its own shadow the day before. Most newspapers carry full coverage of the event in the weather sections, including updates from the nearest celebrations and festivals around the country.
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Visit the official website of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club for live coverage and updates on whether or not Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on the big day (see Resources below). The website also carries information on how to join the club, buy merchandise and watch videos of past Groundhog Day celebrations.
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