Americans have been celebrating the annual weather forecasting tradition known as Groundhog Day for more than 175 years. The tradition is celebrated each February 2nd (which falls on a Saturday in 2019), and the West Virginia State Wildlife Center in French Creek is hosting its 43rd annual Groundhog Day Festival in a couple of weeks. The event is fun for the whole family, and you won’t want to miss out on the free festivities!

The center opens at 9:00 a.m. and the fun begins at 9:30 a.m. at the amphitheater with live music, including the official song for the event.
Google Maps/West Virginia State Wildlife Center
Then, French Creek Freddie, the resident weatherman (er, groundhog) will make his prediction.
Google Maps/Gregory Phillips
This may be the only day of the year where everyone in the know hopes for cloudy skies! If French Creek Freddie sees his shadow, it means six more weeks of winter; but if he doesn't see a shadow it means an early spring! (Let's hope for cloudy, yet dry, skies.)
Flickr/Steve 1828
After the opening festivities and French Creek Freddie has made his appearance, you can head over to the visitor center for free refreshments and cookies. And then spend a couple of hours exploring this underrated zoo/animal preserve.
Google Maps/Kaylyn #sethsquad

Related Stories

The Apple Butter Festival In West Virginia Where You'll Have Loads Of Delicious Fun

The Apple Butter Festival In West Virginia Where You'll Have Loads Of Delicious Fun

 The West Virginia Pumpkin Festival Will Put You In The Mood For Fall

The West Virginia Pumpkin Festival Will Put You In The Mood For Fall

 The West Virginia Mac And Cheese Festival Will Leave You Happy And Full

The West Virginia Mac And Cheese Festival Will Leave You Happy And Full
The American Bison and the Elk are among the faves to spot. And the river otters will mesmerize you for hours with their antics.
Google Maps/Michael Chidester
The park has more than 300 acres and several trails lead you to the natural habitat enclosures for more than 25 species of creatures native to the Mountain State.
Google Maps/Cody Lambert
You'll find a map inside the brochure you can pick up at the visitors center.
West Virginia Wildlife Center
Also, don't forget to pose with the 7-foot-8 version of French Creek Freddie! Just make sure you're in the shade when you do... you won't want your selfies with this character to have a shadow!
Google Maps/Elizabeth Cruikshank

The 43rd Annual Groundhog Day Festival takes place on February 2, 2019 beginning at 9:00 a.m. at the West Virginia State Wildlife Center at 163 Wildlife Rd,, French Creek, WV 26218. Admission to this event is free. The park is normally open until 5:00 p.m. Learn more at this link.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore West Virginia