Six more weeks of winter or an early spring? Hundreds will gather at the Holtsville Ecology Site on Friday, Feb. 2, 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.
“Our annual Groundhog Day celebration is an enjoyable tradition for many local families,” Superintendent Losquadro said. “I’m always hopeful Hal will predict an early spring to help my snow removal budget, but either way this is a much-anticipated event each year in Brookhaven Town.”
Although he’s sure to be the center of attention, Holtsville Hal will not be the only animal available for viewing on Feb. 2. Following the ceremony, residents are welcome to enjoy complimentary hot chocolate, coffee and bagels provided by 7-Eleven and Bagel Lovers 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.
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Holtsville Hal’s handler, Gregg Drossel, shows him to the crowd during a previous Groundhog Day celebration File Photo
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