A slideshow lists five facts about Groundhog Day, which takes place on Feb. 2. The first official Groundhog Day was held in Punxsutawney, Pa., in 1887, but the celebration originated from other weather-fortelling traditions, such as a Christian holiday called Candlemas. “The weather on Candlemas was said to determine whether there would be an early spring that year, and in much of German-speaking Europe, this was interpreted by a badger,” News Editor Emlyn McKinney wrote. “As many Germans immigrated to the U.S. in the 18th century, the tradition shifted to starring a similar animal: the groundhog.” Graphics by Emlyn McKinney
News Editor Emlyn McKinney shares five facts about Groundhog Day, from its history to its current popular culture, in honor of its celebration on Feb. 2.
