by
BROOKE GOLD HASSON
| Feb 02, 2017
Don’t put your sweaters away just yet! Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this morning, which means winter will be hanging around for another six weeks. Good thing we live in the Sunshine State, where “winter” consists of only a handful of days cold enough for a sweater.
The History of Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day originated as a German Pennsylvania tradition that took place halfway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. According to ancient folklore, fair weather foreshadowed a blustery and cold second half to winter.
Early observances of Groundhog Day took place privately in the woods adjoining Punxsutawney, PA. Today, tens of thousands of visitors flock from around the world to attend the annual celebration, so memorably portrayed in the classic comedy film that bears the day’s name.