On February 2nd every year, people all across America wake up anxious to find out if Punxsutawney Phil in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania has seen his shadow. This tradition is known as Groundhog's Day. If Phil sees his shadow that means six more weeks of winter. If he does not see his shadow, it will be an early Spring. Let's pray for a cloudy Groundhog's Day. This is a popular tradition especially for the people of Punxsutawney. It was made even more popular in the 1993 film Groundhog Day starring Bill Murray. If you're not familiar with the movie, Murray plays a news reporter who wakes up every day and relives Groundhog's Day. Here's a clip for your enjoyment:

 

So What Are Some Other Traditions Or Holidays Similar To Groundhog's Day?

 

Sretenje
Brown Bear Bruno
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In a tradition celebrated by Orthodox Christians, a similar holiday is celebrated on the same day in Serbia called Sretenje which translates to "The Meeting Of The Lord." According to Sretenje, it is believed that the bear will awaken from hibernation. Much like the groundhog, if it sees its shadow it will get scared and run back into the cave for 40 more days of sleep. Again, let's hope its sunny in Serbia that day!

Siebenschläfertag
Squirrel
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One tradition in Germany determines the amount of rainfall they will have in the Summer. It's called "Siebenschläfertag," don't ask me how to pronounce it. Siebenschläfertag in German means "Seven Sleepers Day." Not to be confused with Siebenschläfer which means "squirrel." A squirrel has nothing to do with it. On June 27th, if it is rainy, that means the rest of Summer will have lots of rain. If it's sunny and clear that day, the Summer will be bright and sunny. There is a similar tradition in the United Kingdom called St. Swithun's Day. If it rains on this day it will rain for the next 40 days and nights.

Marmot Day
Marmot
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Finally, In Alaska they celebrate Marmot Day on February 2nd because there is such a low population of Groundhog's.

Whatever weather predicting holiday or tradition you celebrate, let's just hope it yields an early spring!!!

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