Groundhog Day – Punxsutawney
February 1-3, 2011
$327 Double, $425 Single, $295 Triple, $279 Quad Tour Protection: $30 per person
The legend of Groundhog Day is based on an old Scottish couplet: “If Candlemas Day is bright and clear, there’ll be two winters in the year.” Every February 2, people gather at Gobbler’s Knob, a wooded knoll just outside of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Residents contend that the groundhog has never been wrong. The ceremony in Punxsutawney was held in secret until 1966, and only Phil’s prediction was revealed to the public. Since then, Phil’s fearless forecast has been a national media event. If Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, it means six more weeks of winter. If he does not see his shadow, it means spring is just around the corner. Approximately 90% of the time, Phil sees his shadow. Join us as we travel to Punxsutawney to see Phil and get his prediction first hand.
Tuesday, February 1
This morning we depart Pennsburg for Clearfield, Pennsylvania. With stops for lunch and rest en route, we will arrive by mid afternoon. Upon arrival we will visit the Grices Community Museum. Here we’ll see a collection of over 70 antique and classic cars from the early 1900’s to today’s specialty cars. The museum also features a display of African game mounts, one of the largest Black Bears taken in Pennsylvania and even a moose that was taken some time after it had an encounter with Canadian phone lines! We will then check into the Best Western DuBois and have free time to relax and freshen up before dinner at a local restaurant. D
Wednesday, February 2
This morning we will rise early for our departure to Punxsutawney, PA. Upon arrival in Punxsutawney, we will enjoy a full morning & early afternoon of activities, with Phil’s prediction being our highlight. There are assorted food vendors in downtown Punxsutawney so you can grab a bite to eat, or visit the Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center Exhibits, view the ice, metal and wood sculptures in the park along with all the vendors selling their Groundhog Memorabilia. Before going back to the hotel, we will stop at Hockman Candy for a candy dipping demonstration. We’ll also visit the Winkler Gallery of Fine Arts which offers the highest quality of art in the area. Dinner will be enjoyed at Denny’s Beer Barrel Pub, nationally known as the “World’s Largest Hamburger Challenges”. CB,D
Thursday, February 3
This morning following breakfast, we will depart for St. Mary’s for a tour at Straub Brewery, which makes a “Groundhog Brew”. Lunch will be included at the Penn Stater Hotel in State College before departing for home. Arrival in Pennsburg will be early evening. CB,L