Ground Hog Day in Asheville?  Anything going on for our furry friends this February 2nd, 2014?  You bet!  Family fun for sure and a couple of options to consider if you want to celebrate Groundhog Day with groundhogs during your visit to Asheville.  It’s always fun to get into the spirit of this peculiar little holiday.

Annually for the past nine years, Chimney Rock Park has brought out Grady the Groundhog to check out his shadow and predict spring.  You can even vote now on your prediction – shadow or not?  I have voted and I’m voting for no shadow,  mainly because I am always ready for spring!!  Chimney Rock Park is about 25 miles south of Downtown Asheville and you can see Grady step out on Sunday February 2nd around noon.  Enjoy Groundhog Day festivities at the park between 11am and 1pm (weather permitting).  And as always, Chimney Rock Park has trails, waterfalls and amazing views to take in as well.

The Western NC Nature Center is another great place to celebrate Groundhog Day this year – with Nibbles the groundhog – at 2:00 pm February 2nd.  Enjoy a whimsical presentation by Carlton Burke about Groundhogs or “Whistle Pigs,” as they are often called here in the Western NC Mountains.   Learn about the folklore and history of Groundhog day.  And at the Nature Center, there are many other animals, walks and sights to see.  The otters are always a favorite and if the weather is a bit cold, the reptile center is indoors.

“Prickles” at Oakland Cottage B&B

If you need a place to stay Groundhog weekend, Oakland Cottage Bed and Breakfast is a wonderful family friendly B&B, with it’s own backyard groundhog, Prickles.  So, if you stay with us at Oakland Cottage, you might even have a sighting right in the own backyard.  Give us a call if we can help you with a reservation, 9am to 7pm daily, 828 994 2627.  Enjoy the weekend and Groundhog Day!