Groundhog Day Traditions and Predictions

Groundhog Day, celebrated on February 2nd, is a tradition brought to the U.S. by Germans in the 1700s. It centers around Phil, a groundhog in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, who predicts the weather based on whether he sees his shadow. If it's sunny and he sees his shadow, winter continues for six more weeks. If it's cloudy and he doesn't see his shadow, spring arrives early. Historically, Phil sees his shadow 85% of the time, but meteorologists argue his predictions are only 50% accurate. Regardless of Phil's forecast, spring officially starts on March 20th.

What is the origin of Groundhog Day?

• It began in Canada in the 1900s.

• It is a British tradition from the 1600s.

• It is a German tradition from the 1700s.

• It started in the United States in the 1800s.

Who is the main character in the Groundhog Day tradition?

• Jerry the jackrabbit

• Tom the turtle

• Sam the squirrel

• Phil the groundhog

What happens if Phil sees his shadow?

• Summer will start immediately.

• Spring will come early.

• There will be no change in weather.

• Winter will last for six more weeks.

What does it mean if Phil does not see his shadow?

• Spring will come early.

• Autumn will start soon.

• Summer will be delayed.

• Winter will continue.

How often does Phil see his shadow according to historical data?

• 25% of the time

• 100% of the time

• 85% of the time

• 50% of the time

What do Phil's owners claim about his predictions?

• He is never accurate.

• He is accurate 100% of the time.

• He is accurate 75% of the time.

• He is accurate 50% of the time.

When is the official start of spring?

• April 1st

• February 2nd

• May 15th

• March 20th