Patch Guide: 2013 Groundhog Day in Malverne

Will spring arrive early this year or are we in for six more weeks of possible snowstorms and freezing temperatures? Only one furry forecaster knows for sure.

Malverne Mel, the village's very own groundhog and "prognosticator of prognosticators,” will make his annual weather prediction this Saturday morning. Be there to witness the moment when Mel steps out of his home to see whether or not he spots his shadow.

Malverne's 18th annual Groundhog Day Celebration will kick off at 7 a.m. on Feb. 2 at the gazebo inside Reese Park, located on Church Street. The event, which is sponsored by the village and the Malverne Civic Association, will feature live music by the Banjo Rascals, a petting zoo, scavenger hunt, poster contest, prizes and other festivities.

Immediately following Mel's prediction, the Malverne Historical Society will be serving a lite breakfast and refreshments inside the Joseph L. Landers Memorial Restoration Home located on the corner of Ocean Avenue and Church Street.

Then, at 10 a.m., the Malverne Cinema 4 (350 Hempstead Ave.) will be showing the the movie "Groundhog Day," starring Bill Murray, Andie MacDowell and Chris Elliott.

At 11 a.m., there will be a live wood-carving demonstration at the gazebo. Then, at 11:30 a.m. Malverne Mel's mascot will be available for photos in the train station, where the scavenger hunt will also begin. 

The Malverne Public Library will be holding Story Time at 1 p.m. along with a craft, and will also host a second screening of the "Groundhog Day" film at 2 p.m. for those who missed the earlier showing.

Do you think Mel will see his shadow? Tell us what your prediction is in the comments section below.

To watch a video report from last year's Groundhog Day, click here.