Will spring come early this year???
Groundhog Day, Saturday, February 2nd 2013
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| From "Groundhog Day" |
As the folklore goes, this Saturday, a groundhog will emerge. If it is sunny, he will see his shadow, retreat back to his burrow, and winter weather will continue for another six weeks. Let's hope for cloudy weather! For if he doesn't see his shadow, spring will come early. It's origins as a German Pennsylvania custom, the largest celebration occurs in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania where crowds as large as 40,000 have gathered to watch the tradition unfold.
North Carolina has it's own groundhogs practicing prognastication, the art of prophecy. Local celebrations feature celebrity names such as Sir Walter Wally of Raleigh, Queen Charlotte, and Mortimer of Garner.
Here are some Groundhog Day events happening in the state:
White Deer Park, Garner
Saturday 10-12:30, shadow ceremony at noon
Hawk release and meet the animals of CLAWS, Inc, DJ and field games, timber sport demonstrations, crafts and amphibians and reptiles of the NC Herp Society and Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation!!!
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh
Saturday from 9-5, shadow ceremony starting at noon on the plaza
Exhibits and tables for kids to learn more about animals in NC, habitat, adaptations and even meet some of the furry friends.
Charlotte Nature Museum
Saturday from 10-1, with shadow event at 11:30
Crafts, puppet shows and storytelling
Western North Carolina Nature Center, Asheville
Saturday at 2
Folklore, stories, songs and meet the animals!
Chimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure
Saturday 11-1
Programs on groundhogs and other woodland creatures, guided family hikes and crafts
Natural Science Center of Greensboro
Saturday at 10:15
Witness the annual prediction by Woody the Groundhog
Youth Nature Program at Halyburton Park, Wilmington
Saturday from 1:30-3:30
Join park naturalist to learn about groundhogs, take a guided hike and participate in craft
For fun information on other weather related animal folklore, visit the State Climate Office of North Carolina.
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