Today is Groundhog Day, originating in
Pennsylvania via the German immigrants where the folklore and
tradition comes from. The Pennsylvania German description is
Gundsaudagg, Murmeltiertag. It occurs every February
2nd. If it is cloudy when a groundhog emerges from its
burrow on this day, then spring will come early; if it is sunny, the
groundhog will supposedly see its shadow and retreat back into its
burrow, which means that winter weather will continue for six more
weeks.
In southeastern Pennsylvania, Grundsow Lodges celebrate the holiday with fersommlinge – social
events that include food, speeches and entertainment. During the
event only Pennsylvanian German is spoken and anyone caught speaking
English pay a penalty (nickel, dime or quarter) for every English
word spoken and the money is put into a bowl at the center of the
table.
