While you won't get the day off work on this unofficial holiday, you can have a little bit of fun and follow the groundhog's prediction for sun or storms. How did the groundhog get a holiday named in his honor? This tradition springs from an old Candlemas tradition where hibernating creatures were seen as a barometer of Spring. If it's sunny on Groundhog's Day-and the creature can see his shadow-then stormy weather is said to follow for the next six weeks.