Groundhog Day is here! Folkloric predictions and traditions are always fun, February 2, 2016 will be Punxsutawney Phil's 130th prognostication in predicting the winter weather. As the infamous Groundhog Day tale goes, if it is overcast and cloudy when Phil emerges from his burrow on Tuesday, then spring will come early. However, if it is sunny and bright, the groundhog will supposedly see its shadow and retreat back into its burrow, and the winter weather will continue for six more weeks.
2016 will keep with traditions of this holiday that are most widely celebrated in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Fans of Punxsutawney Phil can watch as the furry marmot appears at sunrise on February 2 at Gobbler's Knob in the Pennsylvania Wilds to make his annual prediction on the 130th anniversary. If you are lucky enough to be able to visit Pennsylvania for this timeless custom, then be sure to visit one of the infamous Groundhog Lodges where a “fersommilinge” is sure to be taking place, attendees will be treated with food, drinks and speeches. But be careful what language you speak at this ritualistic events, because the Pennsylvania German dialect is the only language allowed at the party, and those who speak English pay a penalty, usually in the form of a 5, 10, or even 25 cents per word spoken, with the money put into a bowl in the center of the table!
If you haven’t brushed up on your German, and can’t make the trip to Pennsylvania, you probably think you won’t be included in all the wild antics of the day, but you are surely mistaken! Fortunately for the devoted fans of Punxsutawney Phil can watch a free online live stream available at visitpa.com, and you can see the live coverage of his 2016 winter weather prediction!
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