Groundhog Days festival in Woodstock | Road trip idea

Road trip alert: This weekend, Woodstock, the timeless little northern Illinois town that charmed audiences in the Groundhog Day movie, relives its cinematic glory with a celebration of the 1993 cult hit. From January 29–February 5, the town’s Groundhog Days festival pays homage to the 20th anniversary of the filming of the movie, which stars Bill Murray as a smug big-city weatherman who relives the same day over and over again.

The weeklong celebration includes a film screening, movie-trivia games, location tours, a spring prognostication by a real groundhog and small-town fun such as storytelling and the Winter Blues Dinner-Dance. Most events are free, but some require reservations and advance tickets. Visit woodstockgroundhog.org or call 815-338-4483 for details.

Tip: The website also features a downloadable map for self-guided movie location tours, including the stunning Victorian Inn where Murray's charcter stayed during his repetitive ordeal.