Battle Brewing Over Newtown Irish Festival

Some residents near the Green Parrot say St. Patrick's Day isn't so lucky for them.

A group of residents who are concerned about the festival say they plan to come before the Board of Supervisors at an upcoming meeting to air their grievances. The concerns are related to noise, Supervisor Jen Dix told Patch.

Supporters of the festival, held annually at the Sycamore Street pub around the St. Patrick's Day holiday, have taken to Facebook to spread the word that they fear the event could be in jeopardy.

Bob Lutz, restaurant co-owner, said "a couple" of nearby residents have voiced some opinions about their concerns with the festival. Lutz said there were no police reports or citations during the most recent festival held just a few weeks ago.

Dix also said officials received no reports of noise complaints.

Lutz has launched an Facebook campaign hoping that people who support the festival will also turn out to a supervisors meeting to express the benefits of the event. He's also asking people to send emails to the township supervisors.

Lutz said he believes the festival opposition is planning to show up at the April 12 Board of Supervisors meeting.

The festival, he said, "provides fun and music for all ages and observes all rules it is governed by."

The festival, which has been held for seven years at the Green Parrot, typically features live music, Irish dancing, traditional Irish food, a 5K, kid-friendly activities and more. An outdoor tent is set up on Silo Drive.