Groundhog Day

Groundhog Day, celebrated each year on February 2, is a lighthearted tradition centered on Punxsutawney Phil, the famous groundhog who predicts the arrival of spring. Rooted in German Candlemas customs brought to Pennsylvania by immigrants, the holiday holds that if Phil sees his shadow, winter will last six more weeks; if not, spring will come early. First noted in an 1886 Pennsylvania newspaper, the tradition has grown into a major annual celebration in Punxsutawney, drawing thousands of visitors who gather for fun, folklore, and a reminder that, as scripture teaches, there is a season for every purpose under heaven.

Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/groundhogday-8

This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine.

Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.