Woodstock Celebrates 50 Years of Groundhog Days Festival

Mayor Mike Turner hands over the key to the city to Punxsutawney Phil during the annual event.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The small town of Woodstock, Illinois has just wrapped up its 50th annual Groundhog Days festival, a beloved tradition that draws crowds from across the region. The highlight of this year's event was when Mayor Mike Turner ceremoniously handed over the key to the city to Punxsutawney Phil, the famous groundhog weather prognosticator.

Why it matters

Woodstock's Groundhog Days festival has become a cultural touchstone, not just for the local community but for fans of the classic film 'Groundhog Day' which was filmed on location in the town. The festival celebrates the town's connection to the film and its enduring appeal as a quirky, small-town destination.

The details

The Groundhog Days festival in Woodstock features a variety of events over several days, including a reenactment of the famous scene from the film where Bill Murray's character wakes up to Sonny & Cher's 'I Got You Babe.' This year's festival also included live music, food vendors, a 5K run, and the highly anticipated ceremony where Mayor Mike Turner handed over the key to the city to Punxsutawney Phil.

  • The 50th annual Groundhog Days festival took place from February 1-3, 2026.
  • Mayor Mike Turner handed over the key to the city to Punxsutawney Phil on February 2, 2026.

The players

Mike Turner

The mayor of Woodstock, Illinois who presided over the 50th annual Groundhog Days festival.

Punxsutawney Phil

The famous groundhog weather prognosticator who was given the key to the city of Woodstock during the festival.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Woodstock, especially with the way the town has changed over the decades. This festival really captures the spirit of the community.”

— Mike Turner, Mayor of Woodstock (The Woodstock Independent)

What’s next

Woodstock officials have already begun planning for next year's 51st annual Groundhog Days festival, which is expected to be an even bigger celebration to mark over half a century of the beloved tradition.

The takeaway

Woodstock's enduring commitment to its Groundhog Days festival demonstrates how a small town can leverage its unique cultural assets to become a beloved tourist destination, even decades after a famous film was shot on its streets.