How did the Groundhog Day tradition start? Many historians believe that it’s related to Candlemas Day, a medieval Christian celebration that falls on Feb. 2.

An old sailor’s saying from English lore states:

 

If Candlemas Day is clear and bright, winter will have another bite.

If Candlemas Day brings cloud and rain, winter is gone and will not come again.

 

Another possible source for the belief may be that the first official day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere’s western lands comes almost seven weeks after Feb. 2, while under the early Julian calendar, the spring equinox fell on March 16 — exactly six weeks after Feb. 2.

Groundhog Day may reflect the confusion created by dueling calendars.

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