February 2 is Groundhog Day, a popular tradition based on North American lore. According to Pennsylvania Dutch superstition, if a groundhog emerges from its den and sees its shadow on this day, there will be six more weeks of winter. If the groundhog doesn't see its shadow, spring will arrive early. The superstition is derived from a German one in which the forecasting animal was a badger coming out on Candlemas.

Several cities in the US and Canada celebrate Groundhog Day with ceremonies centered on a local groundhog character. The first and most notable such character is Punxsutawney Phil, from Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Texas has its own version of the day known as Armadillo Day, starring Bee Cave Bob.

For the movie starring Bill Murray, see Groundhog Day (film).

More Information

Groundhog Day (Wikipedia)

Also see

• February (month)