If you’re a resident of Phoenixville, you know the legacy of the Dogwood Festival. Since the 1940s, Phoenixville has organized a parade to commemorate members of the Armed Forces and the lives lost during World War II. New and old residents, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s Dogwood Festival. 

*Article Updated for 2023*

What’s Happening?

The festival spans from May 17 to May 20 and features your typical carnival-style rides, games, concessions, local food, and non-profit vendors. 

It’s located within Reeves Park, which is the focal point of history for the festival. 

The festival is a dedication to service and community. The events happening over the 4-day festival are service-centric and crafted to be inclusive to everyone. You’ll be sure to find something that fits your interests. 

Dogwood happens every year on the week of Armed Forces Day and celebrates the veterans by putting on a parade, which is rich with history. 

What to Expect for the 80th Anniversary

In the past 3 years, we learned a lot about helping one another. The organization behind servicing the community, the Phoenixville Jaycees, put extra effort into modernizing the festival. 

Daily Wristbands – If you were tired of waiting in long lines to buy tickets, you can now buy wristbands for unlimited rides. The price per wristband is $32. Along with the unlimited rides wristband, digital technology is being used to reduce contact during ticket sales. 

Dogwood Beer Garden – Phoenixville is a craft beer town, and this year’s beer garden is no exception. It can be found on 3rd Avenue on May 18 and 19 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. as well as on May 20 from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m. Proceeds from the beer garden will benefit the Phoenixville Jaycees. Not to worry, the beer garden is borough approved and common among other nationwide festivals. 

Dogwood Royalty – Over the years, the Phoenixville Queen pageant adapted to include everyone. The royalty program gives students in various age categories a chance to be crowned as Dogwood Royalty and participate in the parade. The contest involves raising money for the Phoenixville Jaycees, which gives back money to non-profits and community initiatives. Guardians can find out more by checking out the website link. 

Parade – The parade is occurring on Armed Forces Day (May 20). It begins at 1:00 p.m., and you can find the parade route online at phoenixvilledogwoodfestival.com.

The Origin of the Dogwood Festival 

The name of the festival comes from a Dogwood tree in Reeves Park that is dedicated to the individuals from Phoenixville that served in the Armed Forces. The memorial was created in 1943 by Retired Army Major General Edward C. Shannon, former commander of the 28th Division (PA National Guard).

The overall idea behind the festival is to give back to the community and the people who serve it. The Dogwood Royalty program is still celebrated today and pays homage to the original Phoenixville Queen. 

History tells us that in 1943 Phoenixville High School graduate Regina Glowacki, became the first Dogwood Queen. This status was earned based on a large number of War Bonds and War Stamps she sold. Glowacki’s efforts helped to raise over $8,154.85 for the war effort which was a central theme for early Dogwood celebrations.

As time went on, the festival adapted with modern-day efforts. You can see these efforts through the foundation that supports this festival. 

The Foundation Behind the Festival 

As an organization, the Phoenixville Jaycees is continuously making efforts to better the community. All proceeds raised from events go towards scholarships, local non-profits, and strategic initiatives centered on improving the overall community.

Support the Community 

Whether you have a friend or family member in the Phoenixville community, consider donating to the campaigns behind the Dogwood Festival. They are put in place to keep moving forward together. 

Learn more about the festival on the site and have fun at this year’s event! 

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