What is the origin of Groundhog's Day?

The exact historical origins of Groundhog's Day are unclear, but the first known observance of the tradition in the United States occurred in Pennsylvania in 1887. Some argue that the origins of Groundhog's Day lie in ancient European weather lore when animals such as badgers or bears predicted weather patterns.

Still others argue the origin of Groundhog's Day is traceable back to the celebration of Candlemas Day, also observed on February 2. Candlemas Day is a historical Christian celebration wherein a clergyman blessed and distributed the candles needed for winter. These candles represented the length and coldness of the winter ahead.