The history of Groundhog Day dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries in central Pennsylvania. Folklore states that if a groundhog appears out of its burrow on February 2nd, Spring will be arriving early; six more weeks of winter is eminent if on a sunny day the groundhog emerges and retreats back to the burrow after seeing its shadow. Presently, Groundhog Day is a part of holiday festivals and celebrations of food and activities; a lot of pressure to put on a little, cute-looking rodent.
The history of Groundhog Day began with the Germans in 1886 when it was first celebrated. The German premise was that if the sun shines on Candlemas, the predecessor to Groundhog Day, the badger or groundhog sees its shadow to indicate another six weeks of winter. The first celebration of this new tradition was held in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.