More than 15 years ago near our McHenry new homes, Woodstock, Ill. was the backdrop to the hit Bill Murray movie, Groundhog Day. The event sparked a phenomenon that continues to bring excitement and wonder every Groundhog Day, and this year is no different. To celebrate the filming of this popular movie, Groundhog Days returns with festivities from Jan. 29 through Feb. 5. Many of these events are free, so bring your whole family out to observe whether or not Woodstock Willie sees his shadow.

The festivities kick off on Sunday, Jan. 29 with the Woodstock Lions Club pancake breakfast, and a free showing of Groundhog Day. The cost for the pancake breakfast is $6 for adults, $3 for children 6-10 and free for children under the age of 6.

Other events include “Welcoming of the Groundhog” where Woodstock Willie will greet spectators from the balcony of the Opera House; Groundhog Prognostication where Woodstock Willie will emerge to discover, or not to discover, his shadow; walking tours; a chili cook-off and more.

To round out the celebrations, the town will host a “Shake off the Winter Blues Celebration” charity dinner dance on Friday, Feb. 3. Attendees will enjoy dinner, live music, raffles, prize drawings and a chance to reminisce about the filming of Groundhog Day. Tickets for the dance are $15 a person. For more information about Groundhog Days, visit the website.

This is an exciting celebration that you don’t want to miss, and one that is close to the residents of our McHenry, Poplar Grove and Richmond new homes. Each location has something different and unique to offer new home shoppers.

For more information about our new homes or communities, visit the Gerstad Builders website.