Shadows, spirits, and springtime: The heartbeat of Myerstown

In most parts of the country, February 2nd is just another cold morning. But in Myerstown, it is the center of the universe. While Punxsutawney Phil might capture the national television cameras, locals know that the true heartbeat of the tradition lies right here in Lebanon County with our very own Uni the Groundhog.

The importance of Groundhog Day to Myerstown isn’t just about weather forecasting; it is a living bridge to our Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. The tradition stems from the ancient Christian holiday of Candlemas and the German lore of the badger. When German settlers arrived in Pennsylvania, they found the groundhog (or grundsau) to be a much more reliable and abundant neighbor for the task of predicting the turn of the seasons.

Since 1981, the Union Kanaal Grundsau Lodsch No. 17 has gathered at the Tulpehocken Creek to watch Uni take his ceremonial raft ride. This event is a rare, vital opportunity to hear the Pennsylvania Dutch dialect spoken aloud, preserving a language that once echoed through every barn and storefront in the valley. When Uni predicts the weather, he isn’t just looking for his shadow; he is reminding us who we are and where we came from.

From tradition to vitality: What’s next for Myerstown

As the winter frost begins to thaw and the echoes of the Grundsau Lodsch fade, the energy in town doesn’t disappear it transforms. The Myerstown Vitality Partnership (MVP) is shifting gears from heritage to high-energy growth with a packed spring and summer schedule designed to keep that community spirit alive year-round.

The MVP is dedicated to making Myerstown a vibrant place to live, work, and play. Whether you are looking to support local growers, advance your career, or just enjoy a night at the ballpark, here is a look at the “can’t-miss” events coming your way:

The Myerstown Farmers Market: Starting in late May, the market returns to provide the community with fresh, local produce, handmade crafts, and a central place to gather. Located at 101 S. Railroad Street, it’s the perfect spot to experience Lebanon County’s agricultural roots firsthand.
7th Annual Myerstown Night Out with the R-Phils: Get ready to “root, root, root for the home team!” The MVP is planning a special night out at FirstEnergy Stadium to watch the Reading Fightin Phils. It’s a quintessential summer evening with neighbors, complete with the famous Berks hot dogs and post-game fireworks.
Professional Development – Resume Building Workshop: The MVP believes that a vital town is a prosperous one. This spring, the Center for Entrepreneurial Excellence will host a workshop focused on resume building and career advancement. Whether you’re a student seeking your first job or a professional looking to pivot, this session provides the tools needed to succeed in today’s market.
More Fun on the Horizon: The calendar is filling up fast with community mixers, various local initiatives, and the highly anticipated annual Block Party this September.

The Myerstown Vitality Partnership is more than just an organization; it is the engine driving our town’s revitalization. From the legacy of Uni the Groundhog to the bright lights of the R-Phils stadium, there has never been a better time to be a part of the Myerstown story.

For more information about the Myerstown Vitality Partnership (MVP), visit myerstownvp.org or call Seth Miller at 717-679-8206.