PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. — The party ahead of Groundhog Day 2024 began Thursday evening, as those interested in seeing Punxsutawney's Phil prediction began to swarm the region of Western Pennsylvania.
Locals and out-of-towners alike have been enjoying live music, a talent show, plenty of food and activities ahead of Punxsutawney Phil's big prediction.
"This is from Wednesday until next week," said visitor and party-goer Cindy DeSales. "It is a party. It's a chance to be silly [and] have fun!"
Of course, the prognosticator will emerge from his home on Friday morning and let us know if we can expect an early spring or six more weeks of winter!
It all depends on whether Phil sees his shadow or not.
The ceremony will take place at Gobbler's Knob, a tiny hill just outside Punxsutawney about 65 miles (105 kilometers) northeast of Pittsburgh. It is made possible by the Pennsylvania Tourism Office's Holi-stay PA. The event there — always Feb. 2 — dates back to 1887.
However, before he comes out, revelers of Phil will participate in festivities overnight that have become famous worldwide.
Our own Tyler Hatfield spoke to a few visitors who are excited to see the ceremony on Friday.