Phoenixville Firebird Festival Threatened

The Phoenixville Firebird Festival, which annually draws thousands to Bridge Street for a ceremonial burning of the Firebird, may not take place this year.

The giant bonfire has sent a 24-foot Firebird named Sylvia up in flames for eight years in a row in December in celebration of the mythical Phoenix and the rebirth of Phoenixville.

In 2014, medical personnel said there was one medical emergency but no serious injuries during the festival.

Councilman Michael Kuznar said on Tuesday that an official Borough Council Meeting will discuss the future of the festival and whether or not it will take place at Friendship Field this year.

“I personally met with both sides (of whether to approve the festival) multiple times,” Kuznar said. “Council Rep Dana Dugan and I are still in negotiations, but believe we have come up with an advantageous solution for both sides that will allow the festival to happen.”

Around 5000 or 6000 people came to the 2014 event on 300 Bridge Street, fire officials said.