Groundhog Day will be marked with a mix of quirky tradition and educational programming across Door County this week.

In northern Door County, the annual Groundhog Day Parade returns to downtown Ellison Bay on Monday, February 2. The parade begins at 4 p.m., a later start time this year, and will step off from The Vault Door County on Highway 42. Known for its “Inclement Weather Marching Band,” the event invites participants to dress in costume, bring noise-makers and embrace whatever winter conditions arrive. The parade winds through downtown before festivities continue near the Mink River Basin, continuing a long-standing and lighthearted community tradition.

Groundhog Day-themed events are also taking place at Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay as part of its Science Saturday and weekly programming. On Saturday, January 31 at 2 p.m., families can learn about groundhog hibernation habits and how shadows relate to the sun and seasons. Additional programs include an after-school environmental exploration focused on bubbles Tuesday afternoon and a naturalist-led hike through Big Creek Preserve on Wednesday.

Observed annually on February 2, Groundhog Day has roots in seasonal folklore and history, even as modern celebrations often blend education, humor and community gathering.