Groundhog Day Traditions

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Potomac Phil, a taxidermied groundhog brought out to determine whether he sees his shadow, sits in Washington, D.C. Potomac Ground Hog club founder Aaron DeNu, said Phil saw his shadow during a ceremony at Dupont Circle, meaning that D.C. residents should brace for six more weeks of winter. The club is hoping to begin its own Ground Hog Day tradition, but is looking to find a live ground hog for the next celebration.

Karen Bleier/AFP/Getty Images

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Groundhog handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter during the 126th annual Groundhog Day festivities in Punxsutawney, Pa. Groundhog Day is a popular tradition in the United States and Canada. A smaller than usual crowd this year of less than 15,000 people spent a night of revelry awaiting the sunrise and the groundhog's exit from his winter den.

Jeff Swensen/Getty Images

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Shirley Moffatand and Joanne Alexander of Pittsburgh wait for Punxsutawney Phil to come out from his den in Punxsutawney.

Jeff Swensen/Getty Images

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Treg Wentling and Shirley Wentling of Derry, Pa., dance in celebration after Punxsutawney Phil came out from his den.

Jeff Swensen/Getty Images

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Groundhog handler Ron Ploucha holds Punxsutawney Phil after he saw his shadow predicting six more weeks of winter.