How to Attend Groundhog's Day Events

Every February 2 crowds gather across the eastern half of North America to catch a glimpse of a groundhog's shadow. A visible shadow supposedly indicates whether spring will arrive early, or continue for another 6 weeks. While the focus is usually on Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, home of the legendary groundhog Punxsutawney Phil, you can attend Groundhog's Day events all over the North America.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Winter attire

1. Attend a Groundhog's Day event in an area convenient to you. Besides the celebration in Western Pennsylvania, you can check out other festivities across Canada, in Wisconsin and even in New York City. If you're looking to avoid cold weather, you may want to attend Groundhog's Day events in such places as Tampa Bay and Atlanta.
2. Join a groundhog club to get inside information on how to attend events. For instance, the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club offers plenty of tips about accommodations. You'll learn everything else you need to know about how the events, such as the time and location of the ceremony (called Punxsutawney Phil's Prognostication), and the availability of refreshments.
3. Prepare for the weather when you attend Groundhog's Day events. Since the festivities start as early as 3 a.m., you may encounter frigid weather during the celebration. Bundle up, wear gloves and consider whether you want to bring young children or pets. Remember, no seating is available at many events, and the view of the groundhog may be limited.
4. Visit all of the booths, exhibits and stores in the town when you attend Groundhog's Day events. Many of the towns holding these events depend on the tourist dollars generated from Groundhog's Day. Buy souvenirs and eat at local restaurants. Patronize local businesses.
5. Log onto the official websites for Groundhog's Day events, such as the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club (see Resources below). These websites are filled with valuable information designed to make your participation in the events more comfortable, convenient and memorable.

Tips & Warnings

• Plan well in advance when you attend popular Groundhog's Day events, such as the Punxsutawny celebration. Hotel accommodations are usually booked for months in advance, and you may wind up having to stay in a nearby town instead.