PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. - Many gathered on Wednesday in a western Pennsylvania town in honor of Groundhog Day to learn whether a furry critter will predict an early spring or six more weeks of winter.Onlookers descended on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to watch Punxsutawney Phil emerge from his tree stump at dawn to learn if he has seen his shadow.
The event took place virtually in 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic, depriving the community, which is about 65 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, of a boost from tourists.
It was streamed live and seen by more than 15,000 viewers worldwide at one point. About 150 cardboard cutouts of fans were there to "watch."Officials are hoping the usual crowd of between 10,000 to 15,000 visitors will return in person this year to spend money on lodging, food, beverages and souvenirs.This groundhog tradition is thought to have originated in the 1800s and over time has become a staple in America’s culture.The festivities began at 6 a.m.
ET and Punxsutawney Phil will emerge with the help of his "inner circle" around 7:20 a.m. and make his weather prediction, according to Visit PA.