Celebrate the 2nd annual Harold Ramis Day on Sunday, Feb. 2, with a Groundhog Day extravaganza at Harry Caray’s Tavern on Navy Pier. This special event, beginning at 3 p.m., honors the life and legacy of Harold Ramis, the comedic genius behind the 1993 classic Groundhog Day and many other beloved films. The event is free and open to the public, offering fans a chance to immerse themselves in movie nostalgia while enjoying a festive atmosphere.
The celebration kicks off at 3:00 p.m., marked by the familiar tune of "I Got You Babe" as the alarm clock flips to signal the ceremony’s start. Cast members from Groundhog Day will take the stage to share their memories of Harold Ramis and the making of the iconic film. Scheduled to appear are Stephen Tobolowsky (Ned Ryerson), Peggy Roeder (The Piano Teacher), and Richard Henzel (The DJ). Tobolowsky, in his new role as "President of the Chicago Groundhog Club," will lead a Groundhog Day ceremony featuring Chicago Harry, a live groundhog. The furry forecaster will emerge from his tree stump to predict whether we’ll see six more weeks of winter.
Harry Caray’s Tavern will transform into a nostalgic haven, offering food and beverages inspired by the Tip Top Café featured in the film. Fans can marvel at an exclusive display of artifacts from Harold Ramis’s career, including the Armani coat worn by Bill Murray in Groundhog Day, Harold Ramis’s bust from the 2016 Ghostbusters, Ghostbusters jumpsuits worn by Ramis and Murray, and leather-bound shooting scripts from Groundhog Day and other films.
The celebration extends beyond the tavern, with activities throughout Navy Pier. Enjoy the movie and its iconic soundtrack in the Fifth Third Bank Family Pavilion. The centerpiece of the Centennial Wheel will feature a groundhog-themed image. Restaurants across the Pier will offer Groundhog Day-themed menu items, and Navy Pier’s Sable Hotel will be temporarily renamed the “Pennsylvanian Hotel” in homage to the film’s iconic setting.
As a co-writer and director of Groundhog Day, Harold Ramis captured the humor and heart of Chicago, a city he loved and called home. Don’t miss this chance to honor his legacy while reliving the joy of one of cinema’s most enduring comedies. Whether you're a fan of the movie or simply looking for a unique way to celebrate Groundhog Day, Harold Ramis Day at Navy Pier promises an unforgettable experience.
(Harry Caray's Tavern, Navy Pier, 700 E. Grand Ave., harrycarays.com, Sunday, Feb. 2, 3 p.m., FREE to the public)
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