Weather maps are blanketed with white and light blue. Terms like "blizzard," "below-freezing" and "record-setting" have been dominating the forecast. This is not OK.
In other words... where is spring?
Famed groundhog Punxsutawney Phil will determine whether we can ditch the down jackets and scarves for a lighter look after Groundhog Day this Monday. Of course, Phil's predictions aren't always accurate, but that doesn't stop celebrations in Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia.
PENNSYLVANIA:
Obviously, Punxsutawney is the center of all things groundhog. Various vendors, fun crafts, live music and more will take over the small town about an hour outside of Pittsburgh. You can see the groundhog's prediction up close Monday at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, and later watch fireworks, shop vintage items, and enjoy food and games. See a full list of Groundhog Day events here (PDF).
You can also watch Phil's prognostication inside at Philadelphia's The Grey Lodge Pub (6325 Frankford Ave) from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Events include breakfast, beers on tap, a Hawaiian shirt contest, and a live reenactment of the groundhog's prediction.
VIRGINIA:
The Scene
The most fun things to do and places to be in D.C., Maryland and Virginia
Head to the Virginia Living Museum (524 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard, Newport News) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday for a day of activities, including groundhog-related crafts and interactive exhibits. The museum's resident groundhog Chesapeake Chuck will make an appearance. Chuck will be back at the museum Monday for the official annual ceremony.
MARYLAND:
For those wishing to avoid the cold (and are also 21+), the Baltimore Architecture Foundation's annual Groundhog Day party is Monday at the Peabody Heights Brewery (401 E. 30th St., Baltimore). A ticket gets you drinks, snacks and a tour of the brewery.
