Groundhog Day Celebration at Dallas Arboretum

Saturday, February 2, 7–9am

Now that the Dallas Arboretum is preparing for Dallas Blooms, many are wondering when spring will arrive in 2019. What better way to find out than to meet Arboretum Annie, Dallas’ newest groundhog meteorologist? The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden will host its first Groundhog Day celebration in its newest garden, A Tasteful Place, which overlooks White Rock Lake and the Dallas skyline. Those interested in joining the festivities and shadow-watching are welcome to attend the event for free with paid garden admission, which is $5 February 1–22.

Guests are invited and encouraged to wear any type of hat (Texas-style for Groundhog Day) for a hat contest. Materials will be provided on site, and attendees are welcome to further embellish their hats. At the end of the event, a hat contest winner will be announced and will receive a prize.

According to folklore, if a groundhog comes out of hiding and sees her shadow, she will be scared and run back inside, meaning six more weeks of winter. If she doesn't see her shadow, spring arrives early, which for the Arboretum would be just in time for Dallas Blooms themed Life's A Picnic and open February 23–April 7.

For Groundhog Day, guests are encouraged to come as early at 7am and breakfast items and beverages will be for sale. After the sun rises at approximately 7:22am, Colleen Coyle, WFAA Channel 8 meteorologist and emcee, and Robin Carreker, Dallas Arboretum Public Events board chair, will release Arboretum Annie to see if she sees her shadow. After that, guests are welcome to take selfies with the famous groundhog, make groundhog crafts and watch the iconic Groundhog Day movie with Bill Murray.

For questions about Groundhog Day festivities, contact Kristi Trail at 214/515-6524. The main garden line is 214/515-6615.
dallasarboretum.org

Schools are welcome and teachers and parents are encouraged to help children write and submit a proclamation for the event, just as the Inner Circle in Punxsutawney script one in a language known as 'Groundhogs,' whether he has seen his shadow or not. This proclamation is a contest for any children under 18 years old can participate in, and the selected one will be read that morning. For those who would like to participate, up to 200 words can be sent to sjackson@dallasarboretum.org or sent to the Dallas Arboretum by January 29.

For information about accessibility, visit dallasarboretum.org/visit/etiquette-photography-policies/garden-etiquette-accessibility.