The Punxsutawney Weather Discovery Center is once again sponsoring the “Little Mr. & Miss Groundhog” contest. All kindergarten children attending Punxsutawney Area schools, SSCD and the Punxsutawney Christian School are eligible. Submit a photo (no larger than 5″ x 7″) to the Weather Discovery Center with the child’s name, age, address, parents’ names, and phone number on the back no later than Tuesday, January 13 at 3:00 p.m. Photos may be mailed to 201 North Findley Street, Punxsutawney or dropped off during regular business hours.
The winners are chosen by popular vote, with each vote costing $1. Contestant pictures are on display for voting at The Weather Discovery Center from Jan. 15-29, Thursday through Sunday 11:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m., and Monday 9 a.m.-1:00 p.m. A special extended voting night will occur on Wednesday January 28 from 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Voting will end promptly at 3:00 Jan. 29. Voting can be in cash or by credit card, or online via Square. (MC, Visa & Discover accepted – minimum amount to vote using a credit card is $5.00 due to credit card service fees.) Credit card votes can also be called in to the Weather Discovery Center during regular business hours at 814-938-1000. (If no answer, please leave a message to receive a return phone call.)
The winners will be notified on the evening of Jan. 29. The crowning of Little Mr. & Miss Groundhog 2026 will take place Saturday, Jan. 31 at 10 a.m. in the lobby of the Weather Discovery Center. The winners will receive a $50 Wal-Mart gift card and a gift bag. Little Mr. & Miss Groundhog are also invited to be in the Fireman’s Old Home Week parade and the Home for the Holidays parade. All contestants will receive a complimentary admission ticket to the Weather Discovery Center.
Punxsutawney Weather Center, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and gifts are tax deductible as provided by law. Proceeds from the fundraiser support educational programming.