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SO, WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH GROUNDHOG DAY ?

Groundhog Day

Groundhog Day is a unique holiday celebrated in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, on February 2nd. The tradition is rooted in a superstition.  It states if a ground hog sees its shadow on this day, winter will last for six more weeks. If the groundhog does not see its shadow, spring will come early.

The origin of Groundhog Day dates back to ancient times.  People celebrated the arrival of spring with various rituals and customs. In Pennsylvania, German settlers used a hedgehog to predict the weather. However, when they moved to North America, they substituted the hedgehog with the common ground hog.

The most famous celebration of Groundhog Day takes place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.  A local ground hog named Punxsutawney Phil makes his prediction each year. Thousands gather in Punxsutawney to hear Phil’s prognostication and celebrate the holiday. The event is  a major tourist attraction.  It inspired a popular film, “Groundhog Day,” starring Bill Murray.

In conclusion, this is a unique holiday.  It combines superstition, tradition, and celebration. Whether Phil sees its shadow or not, it is a fun way to mark the arrival of spring and enjoy the festivities.  Thus, it is time for spring!

Craig Shemon has been hosting afternoons on ESPN Southwest Florida since 2017. Prior to that he was a nationally syndicated host in Los Angeles at FOX Sports Radio and in Houston at Yahoo! Sports Radio. Along the way Craig did play-by-play for the NFL on FOX, NFL Europe, Big Ten Network, and The Citadel Radio Network. Craig is a native Detroiter and Indiana University graduate. He has been known to proudly display his Detroit and IU fandom on the air. Craig likes to write about athletes, create quizzes, and covers big sports headlines.