This new, free concert series aims to spice up Philly's nightlife on weeknights

A new concert series intended to boost Philadelphia's nightlife scene kicks off this week with shows at 13 bars, restaurants and hotels.

Weeknights Live is an expansion of the Tuesday Nights Live program the city's Department of Commerce tested between October and January. That program supported live performances in the lobbies of six Center City hotels for 16 weeks, city officials said. All told, 135 artists performed.

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Now, Weeknights Live includes free performances by local artists from 6-9 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in East Passyunk, Center City and West Philly.

The program is rolling out as the city gears up for a particularly busy tourist season highlighted by the World Cup, MLB All-Star Game and the city's semiquincentennial celebrations. Last week, Gov. Josh Shapiro signed a bill that allows Philadelphia bars to stay open until 4 a.m. during a 40-day stretch this summer.

Philadelphia's nighttime economy produces $26.1 billion annually, according to a commerce department report from last June. But Mondays through Wednesdays are the least busy. On average, those days only bring out 115,000 to 134,000 people each night.

"By showcasing live performances at participating businesses, we support artists' livelihoods and strengthen neighborhood economic vitality," Mayor Cherelle Parker said in a statement. "With the expanded program, we deliver creativity and opportunity, bringing people, organizations and businesses together for shared success."

On Mondays, four bars in East Passyunk will host performances:

On Wednesdays, four West Philly restaurants will host performances:

The businesses are subject to change, city officials said. Updates will be posted on Weeknights Live website.

The commerce department did not immediately respond to request for comments about the program's costs. The city has said it will offer performers "fair pay."

Performers and businesses that are interested in participating in the program can email a program representative. Performers also must also fill out an application online.

"The program highlights the strengths of our artists and hospitality businesses throughout the city," Karen Fegely, acting director of the commerce department, said in a statement. "Alongside our partners, we are dedicated to continuously building our 24-hour city with a thriving nighttime economy that drives tourism, hospitality and world-class arts and culture."