It is once again that time of year where thousands gather to watch as the notorious groundhog known as Punxsutaney Phil emerges from his hole in the ground to tell us whether or not winter is over. Groundhog day comes every year February 2nd and at exactly 7:25 am. To those who aren’t familiar with this festive holiday season, the way it works is if Punxsutawney sees his shadow then there will be six more weeks of winter and if he does not then winter has finally ended. 

This holiday takes place and originated in Pennsylvania around 1887 and has been a joy to many ever since. While there could not be a full attendance due to Covid restrictions, a virtual meet was held in Gobbler’s Knob instead. An article written by CBS News stated that,

“A livestream, which had more than 15,000 viewers at one point, played footage from previous Groundhog Day ahead of the big reveal”.

This year the event was held during a snowstorm that had struck the entire East Coast, keeping the event chilly and most definitely a long lasting winter scene. Last year, Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring, but this year the groundhog spotted his shadow and announced six more weeks of winter for the 2021 timeline. 

“I am glad that the groundhog saw his shadow because we would have six more weeks of winter regardless if he saw it or not. This way we aren’t being lied to about winter ending early,” says Senior Stefan Harris. 

All in all, this year’s Groundhog day has most definitely been an interesting one. We’ll be on the lookout to see whether or not Punxsutawney’s prediction of six more weeks is correct and will be looking forward to next year’s.