Groundhog Day Celebrations in New York City: A Tale of Tradition and Controversy

On February 2, 2026, Brooklyn's McCarren Park hosted a distinctive Groundhog Day celebration featuring a rented Pennsylvania groundhog named Wolfgang. The event, organized by 26-year-old political journalist Riley Callanan, attracted hundreds of attendees, including ex-mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, who humorously engaged with the crowd while whispering to the groundhog about its weather prediction. Wolfgang predicted six more weeks of winter, much to the delight of the gathered hipsters. Sliwa, who has expressed interest in continuing the tradition, announced plans for a "groundhog look-alike" contest for the following year, aiming to enhance the event's appeal.

Groundhog day, NYC style: Hipsters will watch as Curtis Sliwa determines if rented varmint sees its shadowBizarre NYC Groundhog Day event with Curtis Sliwa draws hundreds of hipsters, protesters – with a possible twist next yearGroundhog Day 2026 NYC prediction, time: Early spring or more winter? Will the groundhog see his shadow?

Despite the festive atmosphere, the event faced significant backlash from animal rights activists, including groups like NYCLASS and Humane Long Island. They raised concerns about the ethical implications of using a live groundhog in a crowded and potentially stressful environment. NYCLASS highlighted past incidents where groundhogs suffered injuries or even death during similar events, referencing the notorious case of Staten Island Chuck, who died after being dropped by former Mayor Bill de Blasio. In response to the protests, Sliwa stated he would not handle the groundhog himself, acknowledging his lack of experience in groundhog handling.

Bizarre NYC Groundhog Day event with Curtis Sliwa draws hundreds of hipsters, protesters – with a possible twist next yearGroundhog day, NYC style: Hipsters will watch as Curtis Sliwa determines if rented varmint sees its shadowGroundhog Day 2026 NYC prediction, time: Early spring or more winter? Will the groundhog see his shadow?

Simultaneously, Staten Island Chuck made his own weather prediction at the Staten Island Zoo, also forecasting six more weeks of winter. Chuck has been noted for his accuracy, reportedly predicting correctly over 85% of the time since 1981. This year, however, the ceremony was closed to the public due to weather conditions, and fans were invited to watch the proceedings via livestream.

Groundhog Day 2026 NYC prediction, time: Early spring or more winter? Will the groundhog see his shadow?NYC's Staten Island Chuck sees his shadow, predicting 6 more weeks of winterBizarre NYC Groundhog Day event with Curtis Sliwa draws hundreds of hipsters, protesters – with a possible twist next year

The tradition of Groundhog Day has its roots in Candlemas, an early Christian holiday. German settlers brought the custom to America, where it evolved to feature groundhogs as weather predictors. Punxsutawney Phil, the most famous groundhog, has been making predictions since 1887, while Staten Island Chuck has gained local fame for his forecasts.

Groundhog Day 2026 NYC prediction, time: Early spring or more winter? Will the groundhog see his shadow?NYC's Staten Island Chuck sees his shadow, predicting 6 more weeks of winterGroundhog day, NYC style: Hipsters will watch as Curtis Sliwa determines if rented varmint sees its shadow

Riley Callanan expressed her desire to maintain the use of a real groundhog in future events, despite the protests. She emphasized the importance of keeping the tradition alive as a "wholesome reason to keep fun alive" during winter's darkest days. Sliwa, while supportive of animal welfare, noted, “I’m well-aware that I am not a skilled groundhog handler,” and assured attendees he would not repeat past mistakes.

Bizarre NYC Groundhog Day event with Curtis Sliwa draws hundreds of hipsters, protesters – with a possible twist next year

Animal rights advocates have been vocal in their opposition to the use of live animals for entertainment, arguing that it poses unnecessary risks to the animals involved. Edita Birnkrant, executive director of NYCLASS, stated that the young organizers had agreed not to use another live animal in future events, a decision made in response to public outcry.

Bizarre NYC Groundhog Day event with Curtis Sliwa draws hundreds of hipsters, protesters – with a possible twist next year

Looking ahead, the organizers plan to incorporate a groundhog look-alike contest into next year's festivities, while also navigating the ongoing debate surrounding animal welfare in public events. The future of Brooklyn's Groundhog Day celebration remains uncertain as it balances tradition with ethical considerations.

Groundhog day, NYC style: Hipsters will watch as Curtis Sliwa determines if rented varmint sees its shadow