Pa. Road Trip: Blobfest in Phoenixville
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The historically accurate "The Blob" theater setting. Photo: Chloe Gonzales/Axios
👋 Editor Chloe here! Last weekend I went to an event that I think everyone should plan to attend next summer: Blobfest.
The big picture: The original "The Blob (1958)" was filmed in Southeast Pennsylvania, and every summer, Phoenixville holds a festival to celebrate the indescribable, indestructible creature.
Zoom in: I've been to my fair share of themed festivals, and I can confidently say Blobfest takes the amorphous cake.
- Businesses decorate their facades for a contest; bars have themed drinks; and there's even a "run-out" where visitors re-create the iconic movie theater evacuation scene at the Colonial Theatre, where it was filmed.
- Vendors lined up along the street selling blob-themed items, from paintings and key hooks to plushies and T-shirts.
If you go: The next Blobfest is in July 2027. Phoenixville is about 4.5 hours from Pittsburgh — but I promise it's worth it.
- Pro tip: Prepare to spend at least a full day at the festival, if not two days.
The bottom line: Even if you've never seen the cult classic, you'll understand why the town oozes with enthusiasm for "The Blob."