Phoenixville Firebird Will Burn In A New Location This Year

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — The Firebird will burn yet again, but things will look a little different this year.

One of Phoenixville's most treasured traditions seems perpetually at risk of not renewing itself, but organizers have announced that after some struggles and lack of clarity, the festival will go on, albeit with some changes.

The festival will take place on Dec. 8 at Veteran's Park Softball Fields, located on Mowere Road near the Westridge Gardens Apartment complex.

Friendship Field, the longtime location of the event, could not host it this year due to pending construction on the borough's new recreational center, organizers said.

The giant bonfire has sent the massive Firebird, made of wood, up in flames for several years in a row in December in celebration of the mythical Phoenix and the "rebirth" of Phoenixville. Several thousand people attend the event annually. 2018 will mark the 15th year of the Firebird.

Organizers said several other locations were considered, including the Kimberton Fair Grounds and other options outside of Phoenixville, but they felt it was important to remain in town.

The 2017 event struggled to get off the ground due to increased fees from the borough and permitting issues.

The festival will partner with the Jaycees of Phoenixville for the 2018 event.

More information on the festival will be provided in the coming weeks.

Image of Firebird of the past via Patch file photo