Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney: A Travel Guide

Punxsutawney Phil
On February 2, Punxsutawney Phil will come out of his burrow on Gobbler’s Knob, Pennsylvania (Map) to predict the weather for the coming weeks. According to legend, if the local groundhog sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather. If he does not see his shadow, there will be an early spring. The predictions over the past decade do not bode well for those hoping for warmer weather. Phil has forecasted six more weeks of winter in ten (2000-2006, 2008-2010) of the last thirteen (1999, 2007, 2011) years. Be sure to watch the philosophical comedy, Groundhog Day, about the event.
Gobbler’s Knob, Pennsylvania © Eddie~S

Legend
A variety of legends exist in connection with the 120+ year tradition. Centuries ago, Europeans watched for the habits of hibernating animals including badgers, bears, and hedgehogs, as signs of winter’s end. Those who immigrated to Pennsylvania continued the folklore with a special focus on the groundhog. Others claim that the groundhog’s importance stems from the Seneca and Iroquois Indians who had campsites, between the Allegheny and Susquehanna rivers, near Punxsutawney.
Groundhog © Dave Han

Event Schedule
Regardless of its origin, Groundhog Day has become a fun tradition for Punxsutawney and the rest of the country. It’s a worthwhile trip for anyone interested in getting together with thousands of revellers who start the festivities with a 3:00am bonfire. The happenings include free entry into Gobbler’s Knob, refreshments and food, R.V. parking in the Wal-Mart Plaza, and the official prediction at daybreak (approximately 7:25am). For the rest of the schedule, check out the official website.

Accommodations
Punxsutawney is a small town. It’s best to stay at one of the local bed and breakfast accomodations for a feel of the community. The best of the bunch is Plantation Getaway Bed & Breakfast ($75 or $95 with breakfast). The Plantation was established in 1837. Its hostess is Julie, who was born in Zambia. She has lots of international experience. She was raised in South Africa along with long stays in Australia, England, and the United States. No doubt she’ll have plenty of stories for travelers. Rooms are decorated based on a variety of themes ranging from The English Room and The African Room to The Australian Coastal Room.

Another option is the Bed & Breakfast of Jackson Run ($85 for a single or double; $95 for a triple). Take $10 off without breakfast. They have a long list of testimonials on their website.
Groundhog Decor © _G2

Restaurants
Mary’s Place Restaurant is a great spot with a local crowd. Mary’s is a family restaurant with Italian dishes, house specialties, and more. Entrees include Raspberry Chicken Salad, Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo, The Tuscan Trio, Veal Marsala, and a variety of steaks. It’s vegetarian friendly.

Another option with an assorted menu is Country Villa Restaurant.

Distance By Car
From Pittsburgh 1 hour 45 minutes
From Cleveland 3 hours 20 minutes
From Washington DC 4 hours 20 minutes
From Philadelphia 5 hours
From New York City 5 hours 10 minutes

Weather
Be sure to check the weather. It will be especially cold during the overnight bonfire festivities.

February 2nd
Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania

Happy Groundhog Day!
Let’s hope for an early end to winter.

By the way, according to a Canadian researcher, the groundhog only gets the prediction correct 37% of the time. The Groundhog Club of Punxsutawney reports that it’s actually closer to 100% of the time! Everybody is ready to ask: did the groundhog see his shadow this year?
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Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Feel free to contact him with questions, comments, or inquiries with reference to contributing a travel article or photograph for publication.

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