Get ready, Center City’s not-so-average happy hour is back for the summer! Every Wednesday, the streets of Philadelphia will be a little more vibrant and livelier than usual. From June 6 to August 14 (excluding July 4), the highly popular Center City District (CCD) Sips happy hour returns. Heading into its 15th year, Sips is rolling out some new changes this year.
If you’re unfamiliar to CCD Sips, the program was created to stimulate weekday engagement throughout the city. Geared towards young professionals, they are encouraged to experience new bars and restaurants—on a budget. With 90 participating bars and restaurants, each one offers $6 cocktails, $5 wine, $4 beer, and half-priced appetizers from 5-7 p.m. Over the years, it’s become a welcome break from the 9-5 hustle for everyone to enjoy the warm weather and networking.
New to 2018, you may have seen CCD Sips’ updated branding campaign (above). This year, they’re going for a sultry, vintage look. The featured partner is Hornitos tequila instead of vodka partners in recent years. Excitedly, there are a few new participants that have been added to the list of restaurants and bars. They include Brickwall Tavern,* Porta,* Concourse Dance Bar, and Midtown (formerly Pennsylvania 6).
Logistically, there are some changes to the program. This is the first year CCD has ever raised its prices for CCD Sips. The drink specials are increasing by $1 in an effort to reduce possibilities of excessive drinking. Along those lines, attendees can expect stronger monitoring of crowds compared to previous years. Popular outdoor bars, such as Marathon Grill, Chops at Comcast and Pagano’s, will see an increase of security and police bike patrols.
Similar to previous years, special dinner deals are here to stay. Those looking for post-happy-hour food can enjoy a 15% discount at participating restaurants. Many Center City parking lots will have discounts for those who are able to drive responsibly. To ensure everyone gets home safe, CCD has officially partnered with rideshare partner Lyft for the first year. New Lyft users can receive $10 off first ride by using the code SIPS2018.
For more information and the latest updates, follow CCD Sips on Twitter and Instagram. Use #HowISip to join the conversation and see behind-the-scenes bar interviews, insider information, and pro tips.
Where will you be sipping this summer? Let us know in the comments or on social media!
* Porta and Brickwall Tavern Philadelphia is a client of Philly PR Girl.
