Punxsutawney Phil

Curiosities

Punxsutawney Phil is a legendary groundhog and the focal point of the annual Groundhog Day celebration held in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, United States. This beloved rodent, whose origins date back to the 19th century, has become an enduring symbol of weather prediction and folklore in American culture. Each year on February 2nd, thousands gather in Punxsutawney to witness Phil’s emergence from his burrow. According to tradition, if Phil sees his shadow upon emerging, it is believed that there will be six more weeks of winter weather. Conversely, if he does not see his shadow, it is interpreted as a prediction of an early spring.