Groundhog Day with Holtsville Hal

Six more weeks of winter or an early spring? Hundreds will gather at the Holtsville Ecology Site to hear Highway Superintendent Daniel P. Losquadro announce Holtsville Hal’s famous forecast.

According to tradition, if a groundhog sees its shadow after stirring from hibernation on Groundhog Day, there will be six more weeks of winter weather; if not, spring should arrive early. Superintendent Losquadro will reveal Hal’s forecast at approximately 7:25 a.m.

Although he’s sure to be the center of attention, Holtsville Hal will not be the only animal available for viewing. Following the ceremony, residents are welcome to enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, coffee and bagels and visit the more than 100 non-releasable, wild or injured animals residing at the Animal Preserve, which will be open at 7 a.m.

Gates will open at the Holtsville Ecology Site & Animal Preserve, 249 Buckley Road, Holtsville, at 7 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 2; parking is free. Residents are asked to arrive as close to 7 a.m. as possible to get a good view of Hal. Call 631.451.5330 for more information.