Each year, as many as 30,000 visitors gather round Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, to see the local woodchuck emerging from his burrow. In this national event known as Groundhog Day, if Punxsutawney Phil does not see his shadow, spring is on the way.

Groundhog Day is a national tradition and media event that has been televised since 1966. The town of Punxsutawney, touted as the “weather capital of the world,” welcomes visitors with a festival of activities including meals, craft fairs, and guided tours. On the second day of February, the crowd forms at 3:00 a.m. to the sounds of music and entertainment. Dressed warmly, they sip coffee until a fireworks display lights up the night at 5:00 a.m. The groundhog emerges at dawn and if his shadow is visible, 6 more weeks of winter are expected.

Punxsutawney attracts visitors who appreciate the charm and friendliness of a small town. Stop by Nick’s Corner Lunch for hometown service with a smile, mingle with the locals at Frank and Stein Dogs and Drafts, or warm up with a cup of Joe at This & That Coffee Bar. Barclay Square is a preserved historic attraction and town square. The Phantastic Phils Public Art Project decorates public areas of Punxsutawney with 6-foot-tall fiberglass works of art replicating the local groundhog. With dealers like Chicks from the Sticks and The Summer Kitchen Antiques and More boasting great finds, the town also appeals to antique shoppers. Quaint lodges in Punxsutawney include the Smuggler’s Inn in the heart of the historic district and Pantall Hotel and Conference Center—a restored 1888 hotel with ironed sheets in every room.

February is the ideal time to visit the quiet, enchanting town. Its Groundhog Day ceremony offers activities, celebrations, and the chance to witness the world famous Punxsutawney Phil. To find out about assignment alternatives in Pennsylvania, go to Travel Opportunities at www.HealthcareTraveler.com or contact your staffing recruiter today!

References
Punxsutawney.com. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2007, from http://punxsutawney.com/

VisitPA.com. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2007, from http://www.visitpa.com/visitpa/keyWordSearch.pa?keywords=punxsutawney&x=0&y=0

Whatsonwhen.com. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2007, from http://www.whatsonwhen.com/events/~43643.jml