A day that strikes fear in the heart of cold-weather dwellers everywhere is fast approaching–Groundhog Day. Whether the groundhog predicts a longer winter or early spring, you can bring some fun into your cold winter day with these cute Groundhog Day worksheets!
Every year on February 2nd, people across the United States turn their attention to a small town in Pennsylvania. Although there are other towns that have a similar Groundhog Day celebration, Punxsutawney Phil is definitely the most popular groundhog weatherman. Er, weather rodent? Phil will predict an early spring or six more weeks of winter, supposedly based off of if he sees his shadow. But have you ever wondered where this quirky little tradition came from?
a brief history of Groundhog Day
Groundhog Day has its roots in ancient European weather lore. Centuries ago, people in Germany celebrated Candlemas Day on February 2nd, a Christian holiday marking the midpoint between winter and spring. On this day, clergy would bless candles to bring light and warmth during the remaining cold months. Over time, a superstition arose–if the weather was sunny on Candlemas Day, it meant winter would stick around longer, but if it was cloudy, spring was on its way.
When German immigrants settled in Pennsylvania, they brought this belief with them. In Europe, they had watched hibernating animals, such as badgers or hedgehogs, to help predict the weather. However, groundhogs were more common in Pennsylvania so they became the new forecasters. The tradition of Groundhog Day was born!
The first official Groundhog Day celebration took place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, in 1887. A group of groundhog enthusiasts, known as the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, declared that a groundhog named Phil would be the country’s official weather predictor. According to legend, if Phil emerges from his burrow and sees his shadow, he gets scared and retreats, signaling six more weeks of winter. If he doesn’t see his shadow, spring will come early.
So, as you and your kids work on these fun Groundhog Day worksheets, take a moment to appreciate the long history behind this tradition. Who knew a little groundhog could have such a big impact?
three Groundhog Day worksheets
I’ve made some fun Groundhog Day worksheets that are perfect for elementary students. First of all, there’s a word search that briefly talks about the history of Groundhog Day. I also made a little maze to get the groundhog out of his burrow that kids will enjoy doing. But the worksheet I’m more excited about is the simple science experiment!
For this science experiment, kids can learn about shadows by cutting out their own groundhogs. This is a project that can be colored and cut out in the morning, then left outside during the school day. Periodically have your student check on their groundhog and record the shadows. Obviously, this science project would work best on a sunny day.
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Find more fun holiday worksheets on my Pinterest boards!
