| Detailed description |
Groundhog Day, a Canadian and American tradition, the day (February 2) that the
groundhog, or woodchuck, comes out of his hole after winter hibernation to look for his
shadow; foretells six more weeks of bad weather if he sees it; spring is coming if he cannot
see his shadow because of clouds; supposedly goes back into his hole if more bad weather is
coming and stays above ground if spring is near; statistical evidence does not support this
tradition.
This tradition is from a old European belief that if it is sunny on Candlemas Day, then
the winter would remain another six weeks. Candlemas Day was celebrated on February second
and commemorated the purification of the Virgin Mary. Candles for sacred uses were blessed
on this day.
Six more weeks of winter for 2003! |