Some Philly bars apply for permit to stay open later until 4 a.m. this summer

Some Philadelphia bars are deciding whether to stay open later this summer as the city prepares for major international events.

New legislation allows businesses to apply to be open extend hours until 4 a.m. during the FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations this summer.

So far, only four businesses have applications under review by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, according to publicly posted data.

One of those businesses is Chickie’s & Pete’s in South Philadelphia. Owner Pete Ciarrocchi said the decision to extend hours will depend on customer demand but he wants to be ready.

“If you’re gonna watch things there’s no place that has more TVs than us so we’re gonna be ready for it and be happy to accommodate and welcome the world,” Ciarrocchi said.

As part of that preparation, the business applied for a Philadelphia 250 permit to allow service until 4 a.m.

“It’s better to have and not need then need and not have. So we don’t know if we’re going to even use it,” Ciarrocchi said.

With more than a month until the events begin, some neighbors in South Philadelphia say they’re excited about the increased activity.

“I like the action. It gives people a chance to see the neighborhood, see our neighbors and we’ll get out and celebrate,” said Susan Farrell.

Others say they have some concerns about what later hours could bring.

“A little scared. You don’t know who’s coming to the neighborhood but it’s pretty safe here,” said Lulu Regone.

Businesses applying for extended hours must complete several certification steps, including safety training for employees.

The city said it received 76 applications for the Liberty Bell Safe Certification Program during the April 1–19 application window.

Philadelphia police say they are preparing for the possibility of more late-night activity, including increasing deployments and focusing resources on areas with extended-hour establishments.

Before applications reach the state level, they must first go through the city.

The application costs $500 and businesses have until May 11 to apply.

Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia is set to host six World Cup matches between June 14 and July 4, 2026. And you can learn more details on Philadelphia’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary here.

This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC Philadelphia. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC Philadelphia journalist edited the article for publication.