Will French Creek Freddie See His Shadow This Thursday, February 2nd?
January 29, 2023
Mountaineer News
WVDNR - WV Wildlife Center
Interactive | Poll
FRENCH CREEK,WV - French Creek Freddie's 46th Annual Groundhog Day Celebration chucks off this Thursday, February 2nd at the West Virginia State Wildlife Center Amphitheater, 163 Wildlife Road in French Creek.
The event is free. Festivities begin at 9:30am with Freddie's much-anticipated prediction unfolding at 10:00am.
According to tradition, we can expect an early spring if it's cloudy and Freddie doesn’t see his shadow after emerging from hibernation. If it’s sunny and his shadow is visible, then he'll return to his burrow and winter will last for six more weeks.
In addition to Freddie's prediction, festivalgoers can also enjoy several planned activities, including:
A musical performance by the French Creek Elementary School Choir
The 10th annual Woodchuckin’ Contest for a chance to win prizes
Meet-and-greet with the French Creek Freddie Mascot
Free hot chocolate and cookies at the Gift Shop
Project Wild activities for kids
The WVDNR has provided French Creek Freddie Facts to prepare you for this year's Groundhog Day; CLICK HERE to learn more about our local celebration and its history, as well as a few fun facts about groundhogs.
A Brief Tidbit: Groundhog Day customs are rooted in a European superstition that bad weather will come if an animal casts a shadow on February 2nd. The modern celebration was started in the 1800s by German farmers living in Pennsylvania, not far from where Freddie’s cousin, Punxsutawney Phil, the world’s most famous furry forecaster, makes his own prediction every year.
TAKE THE POLL:
DO YOU THINK FRENCH CREEK FREDDIE WILL SEE HIS SHADOW?
I HOPE SO!
I HOPE NOT!
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