WASHINGTON, D.C. – Celebrating Groundhog Day with Punxsutawney Phil is an event steeped in American history. Folklore claims if the groundhog sees his shadow, we’ll have six more weeks of winter. In Washington, D.C., they have their own version of Groundhog Day.
“There is a shadow on my ground,” proclaimed the Punxsutawney Phil Groundhog Day organizers. “Six more weeks of winter abound!”
Punxsutawney Phil’s annual Groundhog Day predictions have exploded in popularity with some events in other parts of the nation, taking part in the tradition. In Washington, D.C., they’re celebrating with Potomac Phil.
“This American folklore tradition has been happening since 1887 and as early as 1908, D.C. residents gathered at the national zoo,” said Aaron DeNu, President of the Dupont Festival which organizes Groundhog Day celebrations in D.C. “Potomac Phil has been with us for the last 15 years in Dupont Circle.”
Residents braced the cold for the early morning event.
“We give out top hats as part of the tradition of Groundhog Day and then we have some great groundhog pins and stickers and little stuffed groundhogs for the kids,” said Will Stephens, one of the organizers.
“I wanted to come out here to wear a top hat, they gave me a sign, excited to see Phil’s prediction,” said Kiley Yuthas, a first-time attendee. “I think he’s the greater of the two groundhogs if I’m being honest. I mean, have you seen his expression? He has an incredible look on his face. He’s holding a corn cob. I really trust his predictions, and I really think he’s not going to lead us astray.”
Compared to Punxsutawney Phil, there are some noticeable differences with Potomac Phil.
“Potomac Phil is different in many ways, primarily because he is an unflinching prognosticator, that is in his forever pose,” said DeNu. “But yes, he does give a political prediction which is different than any marmot manifestation across the United States.”
And Potomac Phil’s weather and political prediction was unwelcome news.
“Potomac Phil saw his shadow,” said the organizer. “So, six more weeks of winter and six more months of political gridlock.” The crowd jokingly booed after the announcement.
Residents said the event is a way to have fun in D.C. and take their mind off things.
“It’s a nice way to get a break from what’s going on in the world and gather and celebrate each other,” said Stephens.
