As Phoenixville undergoes a renaissance, the Colonial Theatre remains its culture and history epicenter. Specifically, for the acclaimed film The Blob (1958) which was shot throughout Chester County, with a pinnacle scene at the theatre, writes Stephen Silver for The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

Since 1999, the annual Blobfest has emulated this famous scene of a huge crowd running out of the venue from the blob. This year, Blobfest, which runs July 14-16, will include many activities to celebrate the iconic nebulous monstrosity along with other retro horror cult classics.  

This 24-year-old festival is more bulbous and better this year, as the second live festival since 2021. Friday will kick off with a live stage show and re-enactment, followed by a Blob Ball at Lulu Boutique and Gifterie.

Screenings of the original Blob film, and its 1988 remake will be throughout the weekend. There will also be showings of other movies, such as The Wolf Man and The Bride of Frankenstein with commentary from the crew of Mystery Science Theater 3000.  

Saturday will host a day-long street fair and costume contest and Sunday there will be an abundance of Blob-themed marathons. Celebrators can also take self-guided tours throughout Chester County to visit Blob filming locations. 

Read more about Blobfest in The Philadelphia Inquirer.  

The Blob (1958) Trailer.