Blobfest returns to Phoenixville, PA this weekend, with a circus twist

Part of the 1958 Steve McQueen movie The Blob was filmed in Phoenixville, PA, a Philly suburb. To celebrate, the town goes all out during a weekend in July in what's called Blobfest. The event really is a must-see for horror and film fans, and it's held at the Colonial Theatre, one of the filming locations for the initial movie.

This year, the three-day festival takes place from July 10-12, and it has a unique twist, specifically a circus theme. In what's being called Cirque Du Blobfest, the event promises "a captivating, carnival-inspired twist on the beloved cult classic, providing a more immersive, theatrical, and wildly entertaining way to experience The Blob than ever before." Part of this theme also involves some new events.

One addition is Friday night's "Immersive Screening & Run-Out." This will feature a pre-show experience, led by a ringmaster. That will be followed by a screening of The Blob with an immersive element. Viewers will become part of the movie's action in various ways, through the use of props and tricks, before partaking in the iconic theatre run-out, which occurs at every Blobfest and mimics the moment in the movie where audience members dash out of the Colonial, just as the Blob creeps and oozes into the theatre.

Another new addition is Dinner en Blob, inspired by the Dinner en Blanc tradition. For Dinner en Blob, guests are invited to wear their best all-red attire and bring their own dinner, drinks, and tables. Further, several circus-themed movies will be screened during Blobfest weekend. These include Dumbo, Clown in a Cornfield, Big Top Pee-Wee, and Killer Klowns from Out Space.

Meanwhile, fan favorite events, such Friday night's Blob Ball, which includes live music, cocktails, and attendees decked out in 1950s attire, will once again return this year. Saturday's Street Fair and Kids Carnival, which features activities for all ages, a costume contest, and other surprises, will also be part of this year's festival. There will be plenty of vendors on hand, too.

Additionally, there's also Shorty's Short Film Contest and the 9th Annual Blobfest 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and Kids Fun Run occurring this weekend.

To order Blobfest tickets and to access the full schedule, visit the Colonial Theatre's website.