what are the options for groundhog day

Groundhog Day, celebrated today on February 2, 2026, offers a playful mix of traditions rooted in Punxsutawney Phil's famous weather prediction and creative family activities. From watching the live ceremony to hands-on crafts, here are engaging options to mark the occasion.

Watch the Ceremony

Tune into the live stream from Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, starting around 6 a.m. ET, where Phil emerges to forecast six more weeks of winter (if he sees his shadow) or an early spring.

This annual event draws global viewers and sets the festive tone—check local news or VisitPA for the broadcast.

It's a lighthearted ritual blending folklore with modern media hype.

Family Crafts

Make shadow puppets or art. Use hands, sticks, or paper figures against a flashlight or sunlight to mimic Phil's shadow moment; trace outdoor shadows with chalk for a science twist.

Build a paper groundhog. Roll construction paper into a tube "burrow," attach a cutout Phil with a straw, and pop him out playfully.

These spark imagination and teach shadow basics without needing fancy supplies.

Themed Treats

Whip up groundhog candies using peanut butter cups, chocolate wafers, candy eyes, and M&Ms for cute toppers.

Bake or no-bake "groundhog poop" cookies —a fun mix of oats, cocoa, peanut butter, and sugar dropped into piles.

Add dirt pies with Oreos or pudding cups for kid-approved whimsy.

Educational Fun

Read Groundhog Day books. Favorites like Groundhog's Day Off by Robb Pearlman or Groundhog Weather School by Joan Holub explain the lore and critter facts.

Track predictions. Have everyone vote on Phil's call, then compare with real weather; learn groundhogs (aka woodchucks) are smart marmots native to North America.

Incorporate trivia games about the movie, animals, or history for lively discussions.

Party Ideas

Host a casual gathering with groundhog cookie cutters, plush toys, decorations, and themed snacks—turn it into a trend!

Play songs like "Little Groundhog" rhymes or watch the 1993 Bill Murray film for laughs.

For multi-viewpoints: Some embrace the superstition (40% accurate historically), others enjoy it as pure fun amid winter's end.

Trending Twists

Recent buzz highlights DIY parties and crafts, with 2026 previews urging home forecasts if skies cloud Phil's view.

Forums love sharing pudding cup pics and shadow hunts, blending nostalgia with viral creativity.

TL;DR: Top options include live viewing, crafts, treats, reading, and parties—perfect for all ages on this quirky holiday.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.