Metro Philadelphia

Philadelphia has launched a new initiative aimed at boosting its nighttime economy and supporting local artists with live performances across local neighborhoods.

Weeknights Live, a year-round program administered by the Department of Commerce’s Nighttime Economy Unit, features performances by local artists at hospitality businesses on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The initiative expands a 16-week pilot program that previously brought live music to Center City hotels on Tuesdays.

Mayor Cherelle Parker said the program is designed to strengthen connections across the city while supporting artists and local businesses.

“From Center City to our neighborhood commercial corridors, we are building a more connected Philadelphia through the Weeknights Live program,” Parker said. “By showcasing live performances at participating businesses, we support artists’ livelihoods and strengthen neighborhood economic vitality.”

“Our local artists enrich the quality of life across our city,” the mayor added. 

During the pilot phase, 135 artists were paid to perform at participating hotels, according to the Department of Commerce.

Karen Fegely, acting director of the department, said the program builds on Philadelphia’s longstanding arts and culture scene.

“Philadelphia has long been fueled by musical excellence and artistic expression, generating lasting economic and social impacts,” Fegely said. “This program highlights the strengths of our artists and hospitality businesses throughout the city.”

The expanded program debuted March 30 and now includes neighborhood commercial corridors in addition to Center City hotels. Performances are held from 6 to 9 p.m.

On Mondays, performances take place along the East Passyunk Avenue corridor at venues including Pistolas del Sur, Ray’s Happy Birthday Bar, Stogie Joe’s Tavern and Lucky 13 Pub.

Tuesdays feature performances at Center City hotels, including Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, The Notary Hotel Philadelphia, Autograph Collection, Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia Center City, Aloft Philadelphia Downtown and Loews Philadelphia Hotel.

On Wednesdays, performances move to the Baltimore Avenue corridor in West Philadelphia, with participating venues including Carbon Copy, Renata’s Kitchen, Dahlak and Booker’s Restaurant & Bar.

City officials said businesses and artists interested in participating in Weeknights Live can apply through the program’s website. For more information, visit creativephl.org/weeknightslive

MORE: Temple University, Opera Philadelphia partner to record new operas, expand student roles

 

Keywords

Philadelphia,

Weeknights Live,

Cherelle Parker,

Philly nightlife,

local artists,

live music Philadelphia,

Center City Philadelphia,

East Passyunk Avenue,

Baltimore Avenue,

Philadelphia events