How to Celebrate Groundhog Day at Punxsutawney, PA

Punxsutawney is known as the home of the prognosticating weather-marmot Punxsutawney Phil. The resident groundhog in this western Pennsylvania village has become even more famous since the movie release of "Groundhog Day." The town puts on its best on February 2nd, when visitors relish the irreverence of Phil's prediction.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Punxsy Phil's Prediction

1. Enjoy the day's festivities. The town square has entertainers such as ice-sculpture artists and jugglers. There are also over forty groundhog statues scattered throughout the hamlet--each unique and an inviting discovery. The town is genuinely friendly and many of the events take place in and around the community center.

2. Attend the showing of the film. Whether or not it's already been viewed a million times, seeing "Groundhog Day" at the local Punxsutawney theater is quite a treat. The admission is free.

3. Get an early start. Gobbler's Knob is a hill just south of town. Because of the deluge of visitors, parking at the Knob is not allowed. Shuttle buses commute the visitors from three points within the town. Buses start the run at 3:00 a.m., and there is a nominal fee for the transport. Arrive early. The later a visitor arrives to the parking zone, the less parking is available. There will also be longer waiting times for the bus.

4. Arrive at the Knob. There is a huge bonfire, an information booth and a concessionaire serving hot chocolate and pastries. Prepare for the long wait. D.J.'s, ventriloquists, magicians and a dance team entertain the guests. Expect a spectacular firework display during the darkest part of the morning, about an hour before sunrise.

5. Stake out a firm position to view the festivities. The pomp and circumstance is outrageous. The "Inner Circle" of town fathers in their black coats and top hats perform the event in faux legalese, apparently in an effort to communicate in groundhog-ese.

6. Hang around. Instead of immediately catching the shuttle back to Punxsutawney, avoid the departure line and stand with a much smaller crowd to have a photograph taken with Phil.

Tips & Warnings

• Dress warmly and layer. Knits and ski pants are suggested. Weather can range from forty degrees to well below freezing. Note that the event is a family affair. No alcohol is permitted at the Knob. Take anyone who has a birthday on February 2nd and attend the birthday party at the community center. The party begins after Phil sees his shadow. The party includes cake and punch, and a small gift.

Resources

• Official Punxsutawney Phil Website