PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. (AP) — With much of the United States experiencing a long, cold winter, the anticipation is building for Groundhog Day on February 2. Phil's handlers will reveal whether the iconic groundhog predicts more winter or an early spring. The forecast hinges on whether Phil sees his shadow as he emerges from his tree stump at Gobbler's Knob, a tradition that dates back over a century. Tens of thousands of attendees will gather for the celebration, which has grown immensely in popularity since the release of the classic film 'Groundhog Day' in 1993. Last year's prediction called for six more weeks of winter, a common outcome this time of year. The Prognosticating Marmot's quirky language is interpreted by his cute top-hatted handlers as they present his weather forecasts. Beyond Punxsutawney, various informal and formal Groundhog Day events are set to take place across the continent, reflecting the folklore surrounding this unique celebration. Groundhog Day holds significance as it falls midway between the winter solstice and the spring equinox and connects to ancient farming traditions and Celtic calendars.