America is one of the most holiday-enthused countries in the world. We are known for our over-the-top decorations and celebrations when it comes to national holidays. Nevertheless, a lesser-acknowledged holiday has just passed by. This holiday is specific toward America and Canada and is celebrated every year on Feb. 2. It is known as Groundhog Day.

Groundhog Day is a tradition recognized by American citizens, in which groundhogs  Punxsutawney Phil and Staten Island Chuck are observed in order to figure out whether there will be six more weeks of winter, or if spring will arrive six weeks early. 

This question is determined by the shadow of a Groundhog. If the Groundhog has no shadow when it exits its burrow, there will be an early spring. However, if the Groundhog sees its shadow, there will be a longer winter. 

Within the past few years, many people have questioned whether Groundhog day has continued out of tradition, or out of entertainment. Some believe that Groundhog day is celebrated to commemorate our ancestors, while others think that Groundhog day is meant to continue to entertain the nation. 

Chloe Hager, a sophomore at Ripon High School, states, “I think it’s more about entertainment. The people get fed into the whole, ‘six more weeks’ or ‘six less weeks’ thing.”

Regardless of the debate between tradition or entertainment, Groundhog Day has been a long-standing tradition within American culture and will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who celebrate it.