Groundhog Day 2026: Punxsutawney Phil Forecasts Six More Weeks of Winter
Punxsutawney Phil delivered his highly anticipated Groundhog Day 2026 prediction shortly after sunrise on Monday, February 2, confirming that winter is not ready to loosen its grip just yet. After emerging from his burrow at Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania, the legendary groundhog spotted his shadow—signaling six more weeks of winter ahead.
The annual tradition drew thousands of spectators who braved frigid, single-digit temperatures to witness the famous forecast. Assisted by members of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club’s Inner Circle, Phil’s prediction once again captured national attention, continuing a custom that dates back more than a century.
According to folklore, Punxsutawney Phil has been making Groundhog Day predictions since at least 1886. The groundhog is said to live far beyond a normal lifespan thanks to a mythical “elixir of life,” allowing him to serve as the same prognosticator year after year.
While Phil predicted extended winter conditions in 2025 as well, that forecast proved inaccurate. Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) later showed that March temperatures were warmer than average, highlighting the lighthearted — and not always precise — nature of the tradition.
Beyond his famous February appearance, Phil also holds an honorary role as Ace Hardware’s seasonal forecaster. As part of the company’s partnership with Groundhog Day, he helps promote seasonal yard care, earning praise for his reliability and dedication.
“Phil takes his job very seriously,” said Tom Dunkel, president of the Groundhog Club’s Inner Circle, known as Shingle Shaker. “This time of year brings a lot of pressure and attention, but Phil never misses a day and always rises to the occasion.”
Phil also enjoys family life with his wife, Phyllis, and their two children, Sunny and Shadow. According to Dunkel, the young groundhogs recently moved into a new habitat, giving Phil and Phyllis more space to enjoy their now quieter home.
After completing his annual prediction, Phil reportedly spends the rest of Groundhog Day resting and reflecting on another successful performance before preparations begin for the next season.
Groundhog Day traces its roots to early Christian traditions in Europe, specifically Candlemas on February 2. German settlers later introduced animal weather lore to the holiday after arriving in Pennsylvania, eventually shaping the Groundhog Day celebration known today.
Since its first recorded observance in Punxsutawney in 1886, the event has grown into a globally recognized tradition, blending folklore, community spirit, and wintertime anticipation.