As the sun rose Sunday, Punxsutawney Phil emerged from his slumber to spread the news: six more weeks of winter in Athens. Although it may seem to be a silly or fabricated holiday, Groundhog Day has a long history dating back to the 1800s.
According to AP News, the origins of Groundhog Day are rooted in German traditions, as people would utilize the sky and animal behaviors to determine “farming practices” and weather forecasts.
Traditionally, a badger or bear’s exposure post-hibernation signified the approach of winter or spring. However, it was not until Pennsylvania locals replaced these animals with a groundhog that the tradition caught the eye of 28 states from the eastern and midwestern U.S.
Although Athens and other neighboring cities do not have a groundhog, students and locals displayed their excitement and adoration for the holiday. Kailey Resnik, a freshman studying psychology, was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, sharing a connection to the day since childhood.
“Ever since I was a kid we have always celebrated it very heavily,” Resnik said.
Resnik said her obsession with groundhogs has only grown since attending Ohio University. She often sees the animal near the south side of campus and snaps photos for her mom.
“It is a random holiday that I can make such a big deal about,” Resnik said. “It is something to look forward to and it is something I could just joke around about … even though it is one of those things that many people overlook.”
For some, it is hard to believe an animal’s shadow can predict the duration of winter, but for those in Punxsutawney, the groundhog is a symbol of life and entertainment. The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, formed in 1887, encouraged enthusiasts to venture to Gobbler’s Knob, as the week was packed with exciting events leading up to the big day.
The events were hosted by the “inner circle,” a group of “local dignitaries” dressed in fashionable top hats and long black coats. The circle consists of 16 members who coordinate Groundhog Day and care for Punxsutawney Phil, the “weather predictor extraordinaire.”
From live music and delicious food to fundraisers and the annual “Groundhog Ball” and “Gobblers Knob Got Talent” show, Pennsylvania natives and people from around the world gathered to witness history, as 2025 marked Phil’s first Groundhog Day as a father.
Delaney McNamara, a freshman studying business, attended Punxsutawney’s Groundhog Day festivities in 2024 and said the atmosphere was electric.
“There were so many people, I was astounded,” McNamara said. “To an extent, not a lot of people from outside of Pennsylvania really care about the holiday, but I was standing next to someone and he said he was from Florida.”
McNamara said attendees gathered on the field at 3 a.m., and there was live entertainment, fireworks and breakfast.
A plethora of this year’s events were free to attend. However, tickets for the ball cost $40, with the addition of a live band, food and alcoholic beverages. Those wanting to showcase their talents also signed up before the show, and the winner was awarded a $500 cash prize.
Punxsutawney was not the only city to throw a memorable party for Phil. OU’s Center for Student Engagement and Leadership hosted a “Pancake Prediction Party” Friday in Baker Theatre Lounge with free pancakes, t-shirts and a showing of “Groundhog Day” starring Bill Murray.
“Our office is always looking for new, fun and creative ways to engage the student body,” Joshua Knotts, assistant director for programming, wrote in an email. “We noticed Groundhog Day was coming up and wanted to do something unique.”
Knotts said although he does not believe the groundhog’s shadow determines the weather, he finds the holiday to be a hilarious and niche celebration.
Whether those who celebrated were happy with the outcome or disappointed, it is safe to say Groundhog Day was a success. As students and locals face six more weeks of winter, Phil and other groundhogs around the world will hopefully get some rest in preparation for next year’s celebration.
Lorilei Carmona, a freshman studying sociology and criminology, is from a small town near Punxsutawney and said she finds humor in the holiday’s antics, but her appreciation for the groundhog will never waiver.
“I like the jokes that everyone makes,” Carmona said. “It is truly a magical feeling growing up when you are there … in elementary school, we would always do coloring sheets and we would have special dinners and breakfasts.”
