Credit: Donated by Corbis
Drawing from both pagan and Christian traditions, Ground Hog Day has its roots in ancient German customs transplanted by immigrants to America. Like English and Irish rural folk, Germans noted the approaching end of winter with special ceremonies and celebrations. Although the origins of such practices have been largely forgotten, Ground Hog Day remains an important celebration that each year draws thousands of enthusiasts to Punxsutawney, Quarryville, and other parts of the Commonwealth.
