Groundhog Day, the traditional holiday celebrated in the United States and Canada on February 2nd originated in Pennsylvania and is based on the belief that if a groundhog emerges from its burrow on this day and sees its shadow, winter will last for another six weeks. However, if the groundhog does not see its shadow, it will return to its burrow which means that spring will arrive soon. This part we all know but how did Groundhog Day originate? The tradition of Groundhog Day is thought to have originated from a mix of Christian and Pagan traditions. Early Christians celebrated Candlemas Day on February 2nd, which is a religious holiday that celebrates the presentation of Jesus at the temple. This tradition was combined with a Pagan custom that used animals to predict the weather. Punxsutawney Phil made his first appearance in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania in 1887. The beloved Queen Charlotte who lived at Discovery Place Nature sadly passed away last year. There are still some ways to celebrate Groundhog Day in Charlotte.
Head to one of these theaters to see the Bill Murry classic Groundhog Day:
Head to Camp North End on 2/3/2023 to see Groundhog Day
