10/02/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/02/2025 14:26
PHILADELPHIA - City officials, participating hotels, creative leaders, partners and residents gathered to celebrate the launch of the Department of Commerce's Tuesday Nights Live. This pilot initiative activates participating hotels by offering Philadelphians and visitors alike with a welcoming space to enjoy live performances, build meaningful connections and experience the vibrancy of our city's nightlife. The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, one of the participating hotels, has also agreed to reopen the Market East entrance specifically during Tuesday Nights Live's hours, a key milestone for public activation in Center City. Click herefor images from the launch celebration that occurred on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
"Tuesday Nights Live is an initiative to enhance connectivity and vibrancy in Philadelphia, featuring activities in Center City and beyond. This launch highlights partnerships that make a tangible impact on residents," said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. "We are committed to supporting the historic Market East corridor by creating jobs and generating tax revenue. Under the guidance of Department of Planning and Development Director Jessie Lawrence and Deputy Director Octavia Howell, a public-private partnership with Jerry Sweeney, CEO of Brandywine Realty Trust and Chair of the Center City Rejuvenation Task Force, is working to engage stakeholders in the planning process for Market East."
"Philadelphia's rich musical heritage has long been a driving force behind our city's economic growth, fueled by creativity, innovation, connection, and local talent. In support, the Department of Commerce is proud to launch Tuesday Nights Live in partnership with the Philadelphia Musicians' Union Local 77 AFM, reflecting our shared commitment to providing fair pay for local artists and performers," said Karen Fegely, Acting Commerce Director, City of Philadelphia. "We remain dedicated to strengthening Philadelphia through a diverse economic base while supporting the continued growth of our world-class arts and cultural institutions."
"The hospitality sector is a vital partner in bringing Tuesday Nights Live to life, with participating hotels playing a key role in activating our city's nightlife. We are especially pleased to announce the reopening of the Market East entrance at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown during Tuesday Nights Live's hours, supporting public activations through this program," said Salim Wilson, Deputy Director, Office of Business Success, Department of Commerce. "This milestone was made possible through creative problem-solving by the Department of Commerce's Nighttime Economy Unit, in close partnership with the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown and the Philadelphia Police Department. Together, we are dedicated to building experiences that support our local economy and celebrate Philadelphia's cultural vibrancy."
"Tuesday Nights Live showcases what's possible when public and private sectors work together to strengthen Philadelphia's economy and neighborhoods," said Raheem Manning, Senior Director, Nighttime Economy, Department of Commerce. "I am so proud to have worked alongside City departments and leaders across the city, including Creative Philadelphia, our Nighttime Economy Advisory Council and participating hotels to support Mayor Parker's vision. We are encouraging residents across the city to attend and enjoy Tuesday Nights Live."
Tuesday Nights Live is every Tuesday night starting September 30, 2025, until January 20, 2026.
Time: 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: The lobby of the following six participating hotels:
"We extend our sincere thanks to Mayor Cherelle Parker, the Department of Commerce, and its Nighttime Economy Unit for their leadership in launching Tuesday Night Live. This initiative reflects the spirit of collaboration and innovation that makes Philadelphia such a special place. We are proud to be part of this effort and deeply value the partnership that helps bring energy, opportunity, and community to our city's evenings." said Ken Reed, General Manager, The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown. "The Philadelphia Marriott Downtown remains committed to supporting initiatives that enhance the guest experience, strengthen local business, and contribute to the cultural vitality of Philadelphia."
"The Philadelphia Musicians' Union, Local 77, is honored to partner in Tuesday Nights Live. We extend our gratitude to Mayor Parker and the Department of Commerce for their dedication to showcasing the talent of Philadelphia's musicians and for their commitment to building a nighttime economy that is inclusive and grounded in fair labor practices," said Jarred Antonacci, Secretary Treasurer, The Philadelphia Musicians' Union Local 77 AFM. "May this program serve as a model for cities across the nation-demonstrating that when we invest in arts and culture, we invest in our shared future."
"Tuesday Nights Live is a shining example of what happens when visionary leadership meets community collaboration. Under Raheem Manning's direction, the Nighttime Economy Unit at the Department of Commerce has brought to life a program that not only uplifts Philadelphia's artists but also reimagines how our city's spaces can serve residents and visitors alike," said Evon Burton, Co-Chair, Nighttime Economy Advisory Council, Department of Commerce. "This initiative reflects its commitment to making Philadelphia's nighttime economy stronger, safer, and more vibrant - and the Advisory Council is proud to support his efforts in shaping the future of our city's nights."
For more information about Tuesday Nights Live, visit creativephl.org/tuesdaynightslive/
For nighttime and music economies' impact reports, click here.