Introduction
Will we have an early spring, or are we stuck with six more weeks of winter?
On February 2, 2026, all eyes will be on a small town in Pennsylvania. It’s the one day of the year when we take meteorological advice from a rodent.
Groundhog Day is one of America’s weirdest and most beloved traditions. While it may seem silly, it marks the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox. It’s a sign that, no matter the weather, brighter days are coming.
Whether you are hoping for warmer weather or just love the 1993 Bill Murray movie, here is everything you need to know about Groundhog Day 2026.
When is Groundhog Day 2026?
The Date
Groundhog Day is always celebrated on February 2nd.
In 2026, Groundhog Day falls on a Monday.
The Big Moment
The official prediction takes place at Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, around 7:25 AM EST. That is when Punxsutawney Phil emerges from his burrow to deliver his verdict.
The Tradition: Shadow vs. No Shadow
The rules are simple, but people often get them mixed up. Here is the cheat sheet:
- If Phil Sees His Shadow: He gets scared and runs back into his hole.
- Result: 6 more weeks of winter. (Keep your coats handy!)
- If Phil Doesn’t See His Shadow: He stays outside.
- Result: Early Spring. (Time to pack away the scarves!)
Planning a spring party already? If you are hoping for an early spring, start planning your next gathering. Check out our upcoming guide for the biggest party of the month: The Ultimate Super Bowl 2026 Party Guide
5 Fun Facts About Groundhog Day
Impress your friends (or coworkers on Zoom) with these trivia nuggets on Monday morning.
- It’s an Ancient Tradition: It roots back to the Christian holiday of Candlemas Day, where clergy would bless candles for the winter. The Germans introduced the hedgehog element, which later became a groundhog in America.
- Phil is Immortal (Sort of): Legend says there has only been one Punxsutawney Phil since 1887. He supposedly drinks a “magic elixir” every summer that gives him 7 more years of life. (In reality, groundhogs live about 6 years).
- He’s Not Very Accurate: According to data from the Stormfax Weather Almanac, Phil is correct only about 39% of the time. You are better off flipping a coin!
- His Full Name: His full title is “Punxsutawney Phil, Seer of Seers, Sage of Sages, Prognosticator of Prognosticators, and Weather Prophet Extraordinary.” Try saying that three times fast.
- There Are Impostors: While Phil is the most famous, other groundhogs like “General Beauregard Lee” (Georgia) and “Staten Island Chuck” (New York) also make predictions.
How to Celebrate Groundhog Day 2026
You don’t have to be in Pennsylvania to join the fun.
Watch the Livestream
You can watch the official ceremony live online. It’s a fun way to start your Monday morning with the kids before school.
The Movie Marathon
It’s mandatory to watch the classic movie Groundhog Day (1993) starring Bill Murray.
- Challenge: Watch it on repeat all day long to truly feel like you are in a time loop.
Eat “Dirt” Cake
Make a fun dessert for the kids.
- Recipe: Chocolate pudding topped with crushed Oreos (dirt) and a gummy worm or a teddy graham (the groundhog) sticking out.
Final Thoughts
Groundhog Day 2026 isn’t a federal holiday, and it won’t get you a day off work. But in the middle of a cold, grey winter, it gives us a reason to smile and look forward to the changing seasons.
So, wake up early this Monday, check the news, and cross your fingers for an early spring!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What time does the groundhog come out in 2026?
Punxsutawney Phil emerges from his stump at approximately 7:25 AM EST on February 2, 2026.
2. Is Groundhog Day a bank holiday?
No. Schools, banks, and post offices remain open on Groundhog Day.
3. Why do we use a Groundhog?
When German settlers arrived in Pennsylvania, they found plenty of groundhogs. They determined that the animal was sensible and intelligent, making it the perfect replacement for the hedgehogs used in Europe.
