Don’t Be Salty: Tuesday Is Free Pretzel Day

Yes, it’s true. If you can think of it, there’s probably a day for it.

Some of those holidays, however, are more delicious than others. In 2003, then Gov. Ed Rendell declared it National Pretzel Day, and for good reason. Eighty percent of all pretzels in the country come from the Keystone State, and pretzels are a $550 million per year industry, according to Nick Boerlin, manager of Phoenixville’s

“People in this region really identify with the pretzels,” Boerlin said. “It’s part of Pennsylvania heritage.”

In Phoenixville, Boerlin said the day’s a fun one for everyone.

“It’s always a great day for us,” Boerlin said. “People love it because you get a hot, fresh pretzel and it’s free.”

National Pretzel Day rewards the regular customers with a free pretzel, and also brings newcomers into the shop, located on Bridge Street.

“We always see a lot of fresh faces,” Boerlin said.

Many folks who stop in for a free pretzel end up opting for a pretzel plus something else.

“They typically get more than just pretzels,” Boerlin said.

Some new products include chocolate covered pretzel scraps and pretzels filled with buffalo chicken cheese steak and traditional Philly cheese steak. Philly Pretzel Factory in Phoenixville also has frozen lemonade.

Braving the heat on Bridge Street Monday, a new addition to the Philly Pretzel Factory hit the streets to promote the holiday coming on April 26. Phil E. is the new mascot for the pretzel shop, and he’ll be around for free pretzel day, too.

The Phoenixville location will be open tomorrow from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday for National Pretzel Day. There is a limit of one free pretzel per customer.

“People always ask us that,” Boerlin said.

The day is a big one, and Boerlin said his crew is looking forward to it.

“We’re just really excited,” he said. “Phoenixville has really embraced us.”