The Fenix Martini Bar, Phoenix Cycles, Phoenix Karate — are you seeing a pattern? Yes, the symbolic firebird has made quite the impression in our beloved 19460. Sure, it comes off a little cliché, but in some ways, it offers a certain level of charm and respect. It sure makes these places easier to remember!
But it doesn’t end at naming conventions with this mythological bird. For the last nine years, Phoenixville has embraced the concept of a Phoenix rising from the ashes and turned it into a time honored tradition. It’s an event like any other, as I’m sure you know by now I’m referring to the Firebird Festival. If you would like to know why Phoenixville’s name correlates with the Phoenix, look no further and click away, but what this town has done with the concept each year is truly remarkable.
Though I’ve been to only a handful of these events in the last few years, the festivals themselves never cease to amaze me, and I’m not just referring to these towering bird statues. Each year, these designs become more awe inspiring, massive and truly astonishing. Driving up and down Bridge Street, seeing the process and craftsmanship that goes into them, you have to admit, it’s rather breath taking. And to think, they’re just going to burn these masterpieces to the ground! Truly cathartic.
Regardless, it’s when the Festival actually begins, you truly see why Phoenixville gets the recognition and reputation it deserves. Sure, the Blob Fest and First Fridays have their place, but this is something that goes beyond words. The thousands of people from all around that show for this momentous occasion speak for itself. Due to its popularity, the location was changed from Bridge to Main Street. The crowd expectancy grows every year!
And what’s not to miss? Live music? Fire dancing? We’re not even at the main act and already I’m sold with excitement. Have you seen the black fire pits displayed in the photos? Every bit of this evening is imaginative and creativity at its finest.
This is also an opportunity for vendors to shine. Fashion apparel, homemade chili, burritos and even Firebird Bobble Heads have their place at the Festival. Balloon animals and glowing swords are also available for the kids. Even the restaurants around town are packed wall to wall with patrons grabbing a bite before show time. Everyone wins at these Festivals. Well, unless you’re looking for a parking spot, but that’s a different story. And word to the wise, if you plan to attend next year, the 10th Festival no less, plan on arriving early!
Now, it may not be the little town of Whoville and everyone certainly isn’t holding hands, singing around a burning Phoenix, but there is a drum line, fire dancing, a parade and plenty of cheering as they embrace the finale. Family, friends and loved ones from far and wide watch as the fire spreads and no one leaves til that bird is cooked. For not being a concert, I’ve never seen so many phones held in the air for videotaping. Not to mention, my Facebook blew up with angles from all over. I was just one of the lucky ones with a great view.
Personally, watching the bird go down is a time of reflection. I’m not one to wait for the Ball to drop at midnight in order to make game changing decisions. Like a Phoenix that becomes reborn, I feel this festival is about new beginnings. I’m ready to embrace challenges that lie ahead. Or maybe, I just lived in this town too long and should just enjoy the show.
Whatever it means to you, big or small, this is one event that should be on everyone’s radar. It’s a great way to welcome the holiday season and remember that Phoenixville is more than just another town to grab a bite. No matter how cliché it seems, that Phoenix has made quite an impact. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the big ten!
