Break out the caftans, red wigs and oversized jewelry. Phoenixville’s Mrs. Roper Romp is officially returning on Saturday, September 19.
After conflicting event information circulated online, the organizers have confirmed that the Romp is still on. This year’s event will be a self-directed downtown celebration, allowing participants to visit local bars, restaurants and shops in whatever order, and at whatever pace, they choose.
There is no assigned route, no starting time and no ticket required to participate in the community-wide Romp. A costume is encouraged, but not required.
The one moment everyone should plan around is the annual group photo in front of the Colonial Theatre. Participants should arrive by 5:45 p.m., with the photo taking place at 6 p.m. sharp.
Who Is Mrs. Roper?
Who Is Mrs. Roper?
Helen Roper was the colorful, quick-witted landlady played by Audra Lindley on the classic sitcom Three’s Company and its spinoff, The Ropers.
Her flowing caftans, curly red hair, oversized glasses and chunky jewelry made her one of television’s most recognizable characters. Decades later, that unmistakable style inspired people to begin gathering in groups dressed as Helen.
Mrs. Roper Romps reportedly began during New Orleans’ Southern Decadence celebration in 2013 before spreading to communities across the country.
The idea is intentionally a little ridiculous: dress like Helen, greet complete strangers with “Hi, Helen!” and spend the day having fun together.
Phoenixville has fully embraced it. The town’s second annual Romp reportedly attracted approximately 1,500 people in 2024, filling downtown with loud prints, red wigs, group photos and even an impromptu conga line.
Romp at Your Own Pace
Romp at Your Own Pace
Organizers encourage participants to explore downtown throughout the day, support local businesses and build their own itinerary.
The featured stop, Molly Maguire’s will hold its annual Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day celebration, including a performance from the Coyle School of Irish Dance at 4 p.m. Additional participating businesses and specials will be added to the official event website as they are confirmed.
Other Fun Stops Along the Way Include:
Other Fun Stops Along the Way Include:
- Bistro on Bridge: Try the night’s specialty cocktail: Tripper Sipper
- Fun Dungeon: Grab a free beer token if you are dressed as Helen with unlimited free play arcade admission
- Soltane Cafe: Sip on a delicious Helen’s Cold Brew and try a free 70’s flower cookie if you are dressed like Helen.
- Caribbean Paradise Food Truck: Say “Hi Helen” and unlock the ‘buy 2 patties get one free offer.’
Mrs. Roper Romp Bingo Benefits Ann’s Heart
Mrs. Roper Romp Bingo Benefits Ann’s Heart
Ann’s Heart is adding a charitable stop to the day with Mrs. Roper Romp Bingo at the HEART Campus, located at 146 Church Street.
Doors open at 2 p.m., with bingo running from 3 to approximately 5:15 p.m. The timing gives participants an opportunity to play before walking downtown for the 6 p.m. group photo.
Tickets cost $25 and include three boards for 10 rounds. Extra cards and special games will be available for purchase at the event. Bingo is BYOF and BYOB.
Proceeds benefit Ann’s Heart and the Pay It Forward Café. Advance bingo tickets are available here.
Before You Go
Before You Go
The Phoenixville Roper Romp takes place throughout downtown on Saturday, September 19, 2026.
Participants can begin whenever they like and create their own route. Colorful caftans, red wigs, oversized glasses, costume jewelry and comfortable walking shoes are encouraged, but everyone is welcome.
The annual group photo will take place in front of the Colonial Theatre at 6 p.m. sharp. Arrive by 5:45 p.m. to make sure you are included.
Confirmed schedules, participating businesses and updated specials can be found on the official Phoenixville Roper Romp website. Some photos courtesy of Mrs. Roper Romp Facebook and Ann’s Heart.