We've all heard of Punxsutawney Phil the famous groundhog in Pennsylvania who forecasts the beginning of spring after emerging from his burrow and either seeing or not seeing his shadow. If cloudy (no shadow) spring will come early, if sunny (shadow) winter will last 6 more weeks. This folklore had its beginnings in America in the 18th and 19th century by Pennsylvania Germans but it's origins are considered to be based in ancient European weather lore and the Celtic Calendar. Modern customs of the holiday involve celebrations where early morning festivals are held to watch the groundhog emerging from its burrow.
After researching around the topic, I came across some references from a bit to our south. Based on the Mayan calendar and occuring in a small town in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo called Chichén Itzá (pronounced chicken eat ya)(or is it cheech and itch ya?) a similar celebration took place involving a chicken and a pile of straw. This event will be loosely based on the Mayans tradition.
Move over Punky Phil and meet "Oak Openings Omelet" the coolest chicken weather prognosticator on the east side of Mallard Lake.
Come out to celebrate and witness the forecast of fair or fowl weather. Stumpy75, Barnacle Bear and I will have a nice fire going in the Adirondack, coffee/hot chocolate will be produced in a crude manner and there will be a juice and bakery items. Feel free to bring other food items to share if inclined (a big hot chicken pot pie would be great...hint hint... but no electricity will be available). The work crew will arrive at 7:30 AM to secure the shelter and get the fire going, you are welcome anytime after 7:45 AM. "Oak Openings Omelet" will officially make his coming of spring prediction at 8:45 AM immediately followed by a quick round or two of the "chicken dance" to keep warm. Brush up on doing the official Chicken Dance click here.
Feel free to bring your own animals to look for their shadows and get a photo with the groundchicken.
This is an outdoor event in and around a 3 sided shelter so dress appropriately. Park near the visitor center and take a short walk partway around the lake. Please log if you plan to attend in case announcements need to be made and to get provisions. If you want your coffee to stay hot AND to be environmentally friendly, you may consider bringing your own insulated container. We will keep adding wood to the fire until everyone is either frozen or has left.