Groundhog Day is just around the corner, and with it comes the annual Groundhog Day celebration in Woodstock! The town of Woodstock has much to celebrate when it comes to Groundhog Day, since it serves as the place where the classic movie “Groundhog Day” was filmed. This year marks the 27^th anniversary of the film, which starred Bill Murray and was produced by local actor Harold Ramis.

The celebration starts on Thursday, January 30 at 5pm at the Woodstock Library where children of all ages are welcome to come and listen to stories about Groundhog Day. This is a fun and informative event that leads into the Wakening of the Groundhog at 6pm, over at the Woodstock Opera House. People of all ages can be sure to spot Woodstock Willie, the town mascot. Additionally, there will be a “Groundhog Day” movie trivia game along with hot chocolate and prizes for those with impressive knowledge about the classic film.

The celebration continues on Friday, January 31 from 1 to 4pm at the Woodstock Public Library. There visitors can view press clippings and photos from the film, see sketches of the sets, and view memorabilia donated by the production company. This event is free to the public and will be available for viewing throughout the weekend.

In the mood for some dinner and dancing? The Groundhog Day Dinner Dance takes place only on Friday, January 31^st from 6pm-7:30pm, at the Woodstock Moose Lodge – Be sure to come hungry and ready to fill up on a roast beef and chicken dinner! Live music will begin at 8pm and end at 10pm. Cost is $20 per ticket and will be available at the door.

There will be two opportunities to watch “Groundhog Day” for those wanting to immerse themselves in the viewing of the classic film – or even view it for the first time. The first showing takes place on Saturday, February 1^st at 10am and the second showing takes place on Sunday, February 2^nd at 10am. Both showings are free to the public, and can be seen in the Harold Ramis Auditorium, Classic Cinemas Woodstock Theatre. Come and enjoy the film in the theatre that was featured in the movie!

After the viewing of the film on Saturday, February 1^st, celebrators of Groundhog Day can make their way to Woodstock North High School for the chili cook-off. Beginning at noon the public is welcome to attend and taste the chili for free.

The fun does not end with the chili cook off; bring your walking shoes for a tour of the “Groundhog Day” filming sights beginning at 1:30pm on Saturday, February 1^st. Those who are interested should meet at the Moose Club and look forward to ending the tour at the bed and breakfast where Bill Murray woke up each morning in the film. The tour will end in the Cherry Tree to warm up with some hot cider.

Another fun event to attend is the annual Groundhog Day Pub Crawl on Saturday, February 1^st from 6-10pm. The cost is $20 and starts in front of the Old Courthouse on the town square. No need to drive since the bar locations are within a two block radius. Some of the bars will be serving specialty drinks and food.

On Sunday, February 2^nd, the celebrations begin bright and early at 7am at the park in the town square for Woodstock Willie’s Prognostication. There, guests can witness whether or not Woodstock Willie will see his shadow, determining the fate of our seasons. Will Woodstock Willie see his shadow? Attendees will get to enjoy Polka Music to wake him up, which is a re-enactment of the ceremony that Bill Murray, as the weatherman in the movie, reported on over and over again.

The festivities come to an end at the 2pm at the Woodstock Opera House. The audience will enjoy stories about the making of the movie from the locations manager, Bob Hudgins.

If you live in one of Gerstad Builders McHenry County communities, you are not far from the Groundhog Day fun. There are many events taking place; don’t miss out on the celebration.

If you are looking for your dream home, contact Gerstad Builders today to get the process started. Call at (815) 385-4495 or visit the Central Sales Office / Design Center in McHenry.