Each year on February 2, thousands of people tune in to see if Punxsutawney Phil will predict six more weeks of winter or an early spring. The 2025 celebration continues this tradition, with events taking place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, and broadcast to audiences nationwide.
Why It Matters
Groundhog Day is a cultural phenomenon that has been celebrated in the U.S. and Canada since 1887. According to folklore, if Phil sees his shadow and retreats to his burrow, winter will persist for another six weeks. If he does not see his shadow, spring will arrive early. While not scientifically backed, the event draws large crowds and generates national interest.
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How to Watch Groundhog Day 2025 on TV
For those wanting to watch the festivities on television, several networks will provide live coverage.
- Local networks in PA like FOX29 Philadelphia and WTAE are likely to air coverage of the event.
- NBC News and CBS News have provided coverage of Phil’s predictions in the past during their morning news programs.
How to Stream Groundhog Day 2025
For those looking to watch online, multiple options are available:
- The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club will stream the event live on their official website and social media platforms.
- VisitPA.com will provide a live stream of the event on their primary website starting at 6 a.m. ET.
- YouTube Live will host various streams, including official news broadcasts and fan coverage.
The History of Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day has its roots in the ancient Christian tradition of Candlemas when clergy would bless candles and distribute them for winter. German settlers in Pennsylvania carried the tradition forward, substituting a groundhog for the European hedgehog to predict the weather. Since 1887, Punxsutawney Phil has been the central figure in the annual event held in Gobbler’s Knob, with crowds growing each year to witness his prediction.
Recent Previous Predictions
According to Groundhog.org, the most recent previous predictions on an early Spring or long Winter have been as follows:
- 2024: Early Spring: Punxsutawney Phil saw no shadow
- 2023: Long Winter: Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow
- 2022: Long Winter: Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow
Punxsutawney Phil’s Accuracy
While Punxsutawney Phil’s predictions are a fun tradition, they are not always accurate. According to historical records, Phil’s success rate is estimated to be around 39 percent. Meteorologists often point out that seasonal weather patterns are complex and cannot be reliably predicted by a single event. Despite this, the annual tradition remains a beloved spectacle that draws visitors and media attention from around the world.
What’s Next
Following the morning prediction, festivities in Punxsutawney will continue throughout the day with parades, concerts and community events. For those unable to attend in person, major news outlets and social media platforms will likely share highlights and reactions.
