History of Groundhog Day

Punxsutawney Phil has predicted an early spring. However, how did the groundhog ever come into prominence with a holiday which celebrates its power to predict the future? Check out a history here.

Quick Summary:

The holiday is mid-way between the Winter Solstice and Vernal Equinox.

The original celebration was the Roman Hedgehog day.

German folklore introduced the concept of more or less winter.

The hedgehog has been replaced with the groundhog in North America.

The Christian tradition of Candlemas which celebrates the presentation of Jesus in the temple was placed on the day to displace pagan celebrations.

My $0.02: Though the holiday is silly, animals can be quite perceptive. The ancients were wise to observe their behavior.