Groundhog Day history: How the superstitious tradition made it to the US
Fox News
Since 1887, Groundhog Day has been a beloved American celebration where seasonal weather predictions are left in the hands of a groundhog.
If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow at daybreak and runs away, tradition dictates that he’s predicted that there will be six more weeks of winter. If there’s no shadow, he’s predicted that spring will arrive early.
The annual weather prediction ceremony is hosted by the Groundhog Club Inner Circle, a group of local dignitaries who care for Punxsutawney Phil and help arrange special festivities. Club members work "to protect and perpetuate the legend of the great weather-predicting groundhog Punxsutawney Phil," according to The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club’s website.
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