PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. (EYT) – February 2 is coming up quickly, and, as anyone in Western Pennsylvania can tell you, that means it is time to get ready for Groundhog Day.
[Photos courtesy Kyle Yates Photography]
The annual event, held every February 2 in Punxsutawney, is based on the lore of early German settlers, and its popularity has become so widespread that it draws thousands of visitors from all over the world to a borough of just under 6,000 residents.
Preparations for each year’s festivities usually start well in advance but ramp up in January.
“Preparations are going very well,” said Katie Donald, Executive Director of the Groundhog Club. “We’re currently anticipating a bigger crowd because it falls on a Friday this year.”
Of course, one concern is always the weather, which can be quite cold and unpredictable in Western Pennsylvania this time of year, but as Donald told us, “Groundhog Day will continue on no, matter what the weather is like.”
Although the main event, Punxsutawney Phil’s 132nd annual weather prediction, is officially observed on February 2, the Groundhog Club and Punxsutawney have several days of activities for the whole family planned starting Saturday, January 27.
Events over six days will be held in a heated “Celebration Tent” located in Barclay Square as well as at Mulberry Square, the Community Center, and businesses throughout Punxsutawney.
Activities and events will include food and craft vendors, musical performances, scavenger hunts, walking tours, art displays, wine tastings, and more.
“We have a lot of great events. We really do have something for everybody,” Donald said, “Our most popular event is probably the annual banquet, where we announce the Groundhog Ambassadors, but also the Groundhog Ball, which is a formal dance with a masquerade theme, which is a great event as well. We have a lot of family-friendly events. Anywhere you go in Punxsy; you’ll find something going on. There’s something for everyone.”
And of course, the highlight of the festivities will be Inner Circle’s 132nd Trek to Gobbler’s Knob where Punxsutawney Phil will give his prognostication to those gathered in Punxsutawney, as well as the world.
In previous years, as many as 20,000 fans have gathered in the natural amphitheater by the crack of dawn to hear whether Western Pennsylvania can expect an early spring or six more weeks of wintery weather.
The star of the celebration, Phil, was unavailable for comment.
For more information on this year’s festivities, visit Groundhog.org. A schedule of events and travel guide is available here.
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