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February 2, 2026 Holiday:

Groundhog Day

Groundhog Day is a popular American holiday that revolves around a furry little creature's prediction of the weather. According to folklore, if a groundhog emerges from its burrow and sees its shadow, it will retreat back inside, indicating six more weeks of winter. On the other hand, if it doesn't see its shadow, spring will arrive sooner. The holiday is celebrated with festivities, parades, and of course, the star of the show: the groundhog itself, often dressed in a tiny top hat and coat. The tradition is rooted in ancient European weather lore, but has since become a beloved and lighthearted American tradition.

Learn more about Groundhog Day
Holidays on February 2, 2026:

Tu B'Shevat (Arbor Day)

Tu B'Shevat (Arbor Day) - 2/2/2026: Discover the significance of this Jewish holiday, centered around tree appreciation, planting, and environmental responsibility. more >>

World Wetlands Day

World Wetlands Day, February 2, 2026: Discover the importance of wetlands in maintaining biodiversity, supporting livelihoods, and mitigating climate change. more >>

Tu Bishvat/Tu B'Shevat

Discover the joy and significance of Tu Bishvat, the Jewish holiday honoring nature's beauty and significance, on February 2, 2026. more >>

Tu BiShvat

Discover the joy and significance of Tu BiShvat, the Jewish holiday honoring nature, on February 2, 2026. more >>

Candlemas

Candlemas, February 2, 2026: Bid farewell to winter's darkness and welcome spring's light with candlelit traditions and sweet treats. more >>

Tater Tot Day

Tater Tot Day, 2/2/2026: Indulge in crispy, golden goodness and nostalgic joy with friends and family. more >>

National Crepe Day

National Crepe Day, February 2, 2026: Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of French crepes, from sweet treats to savory delights, and appreciate the art of crepe-making. more >>

World Ukulele Day

Join the global ukulele community on 2/2/2026 for World Ukulele Day, featuring impromptu jam sessions, concerts, and workshops for all skill levels. more >>

World Play Your Ukulele Day

Join the global ukulele community on 2/2/2026 for World Play Your Ukulele Day, a day of music, connection, and joy. more >>
Birthdays on February 2:

Shakira

48 Years Old

A Colombian superstar who blends Latin and international styles to create catchy, energetic music and captivating live performances, inspiring fans worldwide with her unique voice ...

Farrah Fawcett

Died in 2009, aged 62

Iconic actress and producer who starred in the hit TV show "Charlie's Angels" and was a 1970s pop culture phenomenon, known for her signature hairstyle and charming on-screen prese...

Christie Brinkley

71 Years Old

A renowned supermodel and entrepreneur, known for gracing thousands of magazine covers, including multiple Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues, and building a successful business em...

Ina Garten

77 Years Old

Celebrity chef and bestselling author, renowned for elegant yet effortless entertaining and cooking, sharing her expertise through popular cookbooks and TV shows.

Ayn Rand

Died in 1982, aged 77

Russian-born American novelist and philosopher who wrote influential novels like "The Fountainhead" and "Atlas Shrugged", promoting individualism and capitalism.

Duane Chapman

72 Years Old

A reality TV star and professional bounty hunter, known for tracking and capturing fugitives, often with a flamboyant and charismatic style.

Gemma Arterton

39 Years Old

A talented actress and singer who has appeared in a range of films, including Bond movies and musicals, known for her versatility and captivating on-screen presence.

David Jason

85 Years Old

A beloved British television icon, best known for his iconic roles in sitcoms like "Only Fools and Horses" and "Open All Hours", bringing laughter and joy to millions.

Stan Getz

Died in 1991, aged 64

A legendary jazz saxophonist who brought Brazilian bossa nova to the global stage, winning multiple Grammys and selling millions of records.

James Joyce

Died in 1941, aged 58

A pioneering modernist writer, known for experimental novels and short stories that explore the human experience, particularly in Dublin, Ireland. His works are celebrated for thei...

George Halas

Died in 1983, aged 88

Legendary football pioneer who coached the Chicago Bears for 40 seasons, winning six NFL championships and shaping the modern game.

Sean Elliott

57 Years Old

A two-time NBA champion and Olympic gold medalist turned sports broadcaster, known for his clutch three-point shooting and colorful commentary.

Events from History on February 2:
83 years ago
Soviet troops accept German surrender in Stalingrad (Stalingrad, Soviet Union) 1943
The Soviet Union's Red Army has won a crushing victory in the Battle of Stalingrad, as the last remaining German troops lay down their arms in the devastated city. The 91-day siege has left Stalingrad in ruins, with thousands of buildings reduced to rubble and the city's population decimated. This decisive Soviet win marks a major turning point on the Eastern Front, as German forces suffer a massive blow to their morale and manpower. The Soviet Union's victory will have far-reaching consequences, as the tide of World War II begins to shift in favor of the Allies.
36 years ago
F. W. de Klerk unbans ANC, frees Nelson Mandela (Cape Town, South Africa) 1990
In a stunning turnaround, South African President F.W. de Klerk shattered decades of oppression by announcing the unbanning of the African National Congress (ANC) and vowing to release Nelson Mandela, the anti-apartheid hero imprisoned for 27 years. This historic gesture signaled the gradual dismantling of apartheid, marking a major shift towards democracy and equality. As the world watched, de Klerk's bold move paved the way for Mandela's iconic walk to freedom, rekindling hope for a unified South Africa.
178 years ago
Mexican-American War Ends with Treaty Signing (Guadalupe Hidalgo, Mexico City, Mexico) 1848
The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, negotiated by Nicholas Trist, brought a decisive end to the Mexican-American War, as Mexico ceded nearly half of its territory, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Wyoming, to the United States in exchange for $15 million and the assumption of $3.25 million in Mexican debts to American citizens. This treaty marked a pivotal moment in the expansion of the United States, forever altering the nation's geography and fate.
37 years ago
Soviet armored column departs Kabul, ending occupation (Kabul, Afghanistan) 1989
As the last remnants of Soviet occupancy faded, the once-mighty armed column rumbled out of Kabul, marking the end of a brutal nine-year occupation. It was a momentous day, February 2, 1989, as the Afghans reclaimed their homeland, exhausted and scarred from the devastating conflict that had ravaged their nation. The Soviet Union's costly and ill-fated invasion, which had begun in 1979, finally drew to a close, leaving behind a war-torn landscape, countless casualties, and an uncertain future.
44 years ago
Syrian government crushes Islamist uprising in Hama, killing thousands (Hama, Syria) 1982
The Syrian army, under the command of President Hafez al-Assad, stormed the city of Hama, determined to quell a growing Islamist uprising. As troops descended upon the ancient city, a brutal crackdown ensued, leaving thousands of civilians dead and wounded, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble. The assault was sparked by an attempted assassination of Assad and a series of bombings and kidnappings by the Muslim Brotherhood, a banned Islamist group. Amidst the chaos, many residents were trapped in their homes, while others desperately fled the city. The government's crushing response sent a chilling message to potential dissenters, cementing Assad's grip on power.
21 years ago
Government of Canada legalizes same-sex marriage (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada) 2005
In a move to promote equality and fairness, the Government of Canada introduces the Civil Marriage Act, paving the way for same-sex couples to finally tie the knot. This landmark legislation, though met with some opposition, marks a significant milestone in the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights. With its passage on July 20, 2005, Canada becomes the fourth country to legalize same-sex marriage, joining the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain. This monumental step towards equality is a beacon of hope for many, and its impact will be felt for generations to come.
Notable Deaths on February 2:
2014Philip Seymour Hoffman Bringing complex characters to life on stage and screen
1996Gene Kelly American entertainment legend
2013Chris Kyle Brave warrior who served his country with bravery and distinction
1979Sid Vicious American biochemist and academic who won the Nobel Prize for his groundbreaking work
2024Carl Weathers NFL player and actor, bringing athleticism and charm to the screen.
1969Boris Karloff Iconic English actor known for his horror movie roles
2021Captain Sir Tom Moore WWII veteran and charity champion who inspired a nation.
1970Bertrand Russell Groundbreaking English mathematician, philosopher, and Nobel laureate
1995Donald Pleasence Cinematic character actor
1987Alistair MacLean Scottish thriller mastermind
1918John L. Sullivan American boxing legend and pioneer in the sport
2024Don Murray Respected actor, bringing characters to life on screen.
2013John Kerr Versatile actor who brought unforgettable characters to life on stage and screen
2008Barry Morse Pioneering actor and director who brought iconic characters to life on stage and screen
2016Bob Elliott Versatile comedian, actor, and screenwriter, known for his wit and humor.
2015The Jacka Trailblazing rapper and producer who helped shape the music industry.
2012Dorothy Gilman Talented author who wove magical stories that transported readers to new worlds
2002Claude Brown Inspirational author and advocate for social justice
1907Dmitri Mendeleev Pioneering Russian chemist responsible for the periodic table
1995Fred Perry English tennis champion