”Smith Lake Jake” set to make forecast at Graysville Groundhog Day reveal

Smith Lake Jake, the cuddly groundhog from Graysville, Alabama is back to predict whether we can expect six additional weeks of winter or not. 

Not familiar with Smith Lake Jake? The beloved groundhog was found by adopted parents Ginger and Heath Whitworth near Smith Lake over 8 years ago. Jake is now a resident of Graysville.His last public Groundhog Day forecast was in Huntsville on February 2, 2022. 

Now, the best groundhog forecaster south of Punxsutawney, PA will be meeting with Graysville Mayor Julio Davis and the City Council to host the first-ever Graysville Groundhog Day ceremony. 

What: First Annual Graysville Groundhog Day Ceremony

Where: Maurice C. West Community Center, 171 2nd Street SW, Graysville

When: Friday, February 2nd at 8AM

“We are a close-knit community in Graysville and always welcome an opportunity to get together to celebrate fun traditions, such as Groundhog Day with our very own resident, Smith Lake Jake.”

Mayor Julio Davis

Returning to Graysville 

The event in Graysville marks Smith Lake Jake’s first public event since 2022. The groundhog will be decked out in his finest top hat for the occasion.

Attendees are asked to stick around after the show for a meet and greet with Smith Lake Jake and for the enjoyment of local music and groundhog nog (coffee and hot chocolate).  

Here is the Graysville Groundhog Day schedule:

• 8:10AM — Smith Lake Jake will emerge to determine whether there is six more weeks of winter or an early spring   
• After the forecast — Complimentary groundhog nog (while it lasts), music and pictures with Smith Lake Jake    

Smith Lake Jake loves people

“Smith Lake Jake loves meeting new people and he brings so much joy to children and adults alike. In fact, Groundhog’s Day is his day, his favorite day of the year. He’s been doing this for a few years, so he’s got a track record that competes with another famous groundhog, Phil, up in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, so we’ll see how he fares this year.” 

Ginger Whitworth, parent of Smith Lake Jake

What are your favorite Groundhog Day memories? Tell us on social media by tagging us at @bhamnow