PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. (EYT) — February 2 is coming up quickly, and, as anyone in Western Pennsylvania can tell you, that means it is time to get ready for Groundhog Day.
[Photos courtesy Kyle Yates Photography]
The annual event, held every February 2 in Punxsutawney, is based on the lore of early German settlers, and its popularity has become so widespread that it draws thousands of visitors from all over the world to a borough of just under 6,000 residents.
Preparations for each year’s festivities usually start well in advance but ramp up in January.
“Preparations are going very well,” said Katie Donald, Executive Director of the Groundhog Club. “We’re currently anticipating a bigger crowd because it falls on a Friday this year.”
Of course, one concern is always the weather, which can be quite cold and unpredictable in Western Pennsylvania this time of year, but as Donald told us, “Groundhog Day will continue on no, matter what the weather is like.”
Although the main event, Punxsutawney Phil’s 132nd annual weather prediction, is officially observed on February 2, the Groundhog Club and Punxsutawney have several days of activities for the whole family planned starting Saturday, January 27.