One of Philadelphia’s most popular summer traditions returned Wednesday as Center City District Sips kicked off its 22nd season, drawing hundreds of people to bars, restaurants and public spaces across Center City.
Center City Sips returns for 22nd season
The weekly happy hour program, which runs every Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. through Aug. 26, offers discounted drinks and appetizers at participating businesses throughout Center City. This year, organizers say the program is as much about creating connections as it is about offering deals.
As workers streamed out of nearby office buildings Wednesday evening, crowds gathered at Dilworth Park to unwind after the workday.
“After a long day of sitting down looking at a screen, I don’t want to sit down in a car and look at the road, so it’s nice to be able to walk somewhere and have some fun,” Dana Ulriksen, of Philadelphia, said.
The annual program transforms Wednesday evenings into a citywide happy hour, attracting office workers, residents and visitors looking to socialize and network.
“It’ll be good to just get out into the city and meet different people, do some networking, meet other professionals from different organizations,” said Jerry Green, of Vineland, New Jersey.
Participating locations are offering $8 cocktails, $7 wine, $6 beer and appetizers priced under $10. For the first time, all participating venues also are serving $6 mocktails. Select restaurants are offering 15% off dinner after 7 p.m. as part of the promotion.
Philly native Melissa Rodriguez said the appeal is simple.
“Just be with your friends, be outside, good vibes, good music, and good drinks,” Rodriguez said.
Center City District officials say the program’s broader goal is to support local businesses during the slower summer months while encouraging people to spend time downtown after work.
“It’s about connection. It’s about building bonds with your friends and colleagues,” Giavana Suraci Pruiti, of Center City District, said.
For participating restaurants and bars, the weekly promotion can provide a significant boost.
“Sips is a big help,” said Conor O’Malley, bar manager at City Tap. “It’s a group effort between the bars, the restaurants, the neighborhoods, and the district itself. It’s fun.”
Center City District Sips began in 2004 and has become a staple of Philly’s summer social calendar. The program continues every Wednesday through Aug. 26.
Philadelphia bars, restaurants participating in Center City Sips1518 Bar & GrillAki Nom NomBalcony BarBar BombonBarbuzzo RestaurantBar-Ly Chinatown Sports BarBodega Bar & Kitchen*Bud & Marilyn’sButcher BarCapriccio Cafe & Bar at Cret Park*Cavanaugh’s RittenhouseCellar DogCharlie was a sinner.Chris’ Jazz CafeDarling Jack’s TavernDear DaphniDevil’s AlleyDolce Italian Philadelphia*Double KnotDrinker’s PubF1 Arcade PhiladelphiaFlight ClubFranky Bradley’s / B. WestGiuseppe & SonsGood Good ThingsGran Caffe L’AquilaHard Rock CafeHarp & CrownHarper’s GardenHi-Lo Taco Co.Independence Beer GardenKissho House*Ladder 15Lucy’s BarMarathon GrillMidnight & The WickedMiss Saigon Restaurant & Lounge*Nabrasa Brazilian SteakhousePearl & MaryPJ Clarke’sPrestige by Vesper*PrunellaRhythm & Spirits*Rockwell and Rose Steak & Cocktails*SampanSavuStrangelove’s*Taste Cheesesteak BarThanal Indian Tavern*The Black Sheep Pub & RestaurantThe Continental MidtownThe LesieurThe Mulberry on ArchThe Patio*Tir na nOgTop Tomato Bar & PizzaTopside Tavern*Umami Steak and Sushi*Vault XXVII*Veda – Modern Indian Bistro*Via LocustaVillage WhiskeyWalnut GardenWoody’s
*Offers 15% off dinner after 7 p.m. during Sips.
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