Flatiron Freddy's Groundhog Day Celebration

About This Event

City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks invites the community to celebrate Groundhog Day with Flatiron Freddy, Boulder’s quirky marmot meteorologist, on Monday, February 2, 2026. For over 15 years, this uniquely Boulder tradition features a top-hat wearing yellow-bellied marmot who emerges from his burrow to “predict” the winter season—forget Punxsutawney Phil! Join Rangers at Chautauqua Ranger Cottage or watch the livestream at 8:00 AM as Freddy makes his dramatic entrance (past appearances include canoe, fire engine, bobsled, skis, zip lines, and magical stumps). This family-friendly event blends folklore with science, exploring Groundhog Day traditions, wildlife behavior, seasonal sun and moon patterns, and how climate change affects Colorado’s marmot population. Since the early 2010s, Freddy—originally a taxidermy mount at Flagstaff Nature Center—has become Boulder’s beloved weather predictor and environmental education mascot. Experience Boulder’s most whimsical winter tradition celebrating local wildlife, community spirit, and quirky Colorado culture.

Event Details:

• Date: Monday, February 2, 2026
• Time: 8:00 AM
• Location: Chautauqua Ranger Cottage, Boulder, CO
• Option: In-person attendance OR livestream viewing
• Star: Flatiron Freddy (Boulder’s marmot meteorologist)
• Cost: Free
• Organizer: City of Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks

What to Expect:

• Flatiron Freddy’s dramatic emergence and winter “prediction”
• Educational content about Groundhog Day folklore
• Wildlife science and marmot behavior
• Seasonal patterns (sun and moon cycles)
• Climate change impacts on Colorado wildlife
• Family-friendly activities with Boulder Rangers
• Historic tradition (15+ years)

About Flatiron Freddy:

• Yellow-bellied marmot (groundhog relative)
• Originally from Flagstaff Nature Center
• Boulder tradition since early 2010s
• Past appearances: canoe, fire engine, bobsled, skis, zip lines, magical stumps
• Wears signature top hat

More Info: City of Boulder website Media Contact: Sam Clusman, 303-441-4247