The day eventually evolved into what we know it today. In 1886, Groundhog Day was acknowledged for the first time in Punxsutawney by a local newspaper, Weathers Wags, according to the club. In 1887, the first official pilgrimage to see Phil on Gobbler’s Knob while he made his predictions were made.

Feb. 2 is the next Groundhog Day. Who is Georgia's groundhog? What does he do? What is the history of this strange holiday?

PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. -- Here's a look at Groundhog Day, an American tradition that is meant to predict when spring will arrive. The groundhog emerges from its burrow on February 2. If the groundhog sees its shadow when it emerges, there will be six more weeks of winter. If it does not see its shadow, spring will arrive soon.

In March 2024, Punxsutawney Phil and Phyllis welcomed their baby groundhogs or kits. The following month, the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club shared that the kits were named Sunny and Shadow and were already growing and developing fur.

Watch: Groundhog Day 2025 as Punxsutawney Phil gives end of winter prediction -