Make your Groundhog Day plans now

The main event is at the N.C. Museum of Natural Science. Sir Walter Wally, the groundhog, will take a look and let us know his forecast. There also will be other information about the history of Groundhog Day, how snakes survive during the winter and the signs of spring. It's from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Feb. 2. Sir Walter appears at noon to make his prediction. It's free.

The natural science museum's Prairie Ridge Ecostation in west Raleigh also will hold Groundhogs Among Us, a family program from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Feb. 2.  Learn all about our region's largest squirrel, the groundhog, in this outdoor program. Participants will learn about the ecology and habits of groundhogs. The program is designed for all ages. Kids 15 and under must be with an adult. It's free. No registration required.

In Garner, Mortimer the groundhog will make his prediction at a special event at White Deer Park Nature Center. The event is 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Feb. 2, at the park on 2400 Aversboro Rd., in Garner. Mortimer makes his prediction at noon. There also will be crafts, games, educational booths and more. It's free and designed for all ages.

Durant Nature Park in north Raleigh also will celebrate the day with an event at 10 a.m., Feb. 1, designed for kids ages 3 to 5. Participants will make a groundhog puppet, play groundhog games and other activities. Registration is required as space is limited. Contact the park at 919-870-2871 for more information.