About Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day is a quirky North American tradition held every February 2, when, according to folklore, a groundhog emerging from its burrow forecasts the weather: if it sees its shadow and retreats, winter will last six more weeks; if no shadow appears, spring will come early. The most famous forecaster is Punxsutawney Phil in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, whose prediction draws crowds and national television coverage each year.
The custom was brought to Pennsylvania by German immigrants, who linked it to the older European feast of Candlemas and to weather-predicting animals like the hedgehog back home. The first official Punxsutawney celebration was held on February 2, 1887, organised by a local groundhog club, and the event grew into a beloved national ritual — immortalised further by the 1993 film "Groundhog Day". Thousands now gather at Gobbler's Knob before dawn to hear Phil's verdict.
Groundhog Day falls on February 2 every year, a fixed date, so the countdown above always points to the next prediction. Whether you are travelling to Punxsutawney or just enjoy the tradition, add Groundhog Day to your own countdown page and count down the days to February 2.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Tuesday, February 2, 2027next |
| 2028 | Wednesday, February 2, 2028 |
| 2029 | Friday, February 2, 2029 |
| 2030 | Saturday, February 2, 2030 |
| 2031 | Sunday, February 2, 2031 |
FAQ
When is Groundhog Day?
Groundhog Day is on February 2 every year. The countdown above shows the days, hours and minutes until the next February 2 in your timezone.
Why is Groundhog Day on February 2?
The date comes from the old European feast of Candlemas, which German immigrants tied to weather-predicting animals; the first official Punxsutawney celebration was held on February 2, 1887.
How does Groundhog Day work?
By tradition, if the groundhog sees its shadow there will be six more weeks of winter; if it does not, spring will arrive early. Punxsutawney Phil is the best-known forecaster.
Who is Punxsutawney Phil?
Punxsutawney Phil is the groundhog in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, whose February 2 weather "prediction" at Gobbler's Knob is the centrepiece of America's Groundhog Day celebration.