'Hot Summer Nights' crucial for downtown bars during summer slump

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- "Hot Summer Nights," a crucial event for bars on Red River Street, wrapped up in downtown Austin on Saturday.

Outside of the music venue Empire, it was last-minute soundchecks early Saturday evening, ahead of what is scheduled to be another busy night.

"The last band of Friday night we were actually at capacity, so we were one in and one out. So it's wonderful when we're at capacity and we have folks excited to be here," said Empire floor manager Claire De León.

The bar is one of a handful hosting the "Hot Summer Nights" festival. It began in 2017 to bridge the gap of a summer lull, with students gone from school and fewer people in town.

Which is why De León said it is crucial for bars like hers.

"My favorite part (of the festival) is just knowing that we have enough business that we can support our bar staff, and security staff," De León added.

When day turns to night, it can be standing room only in the venues. The festival said its goal is to not just provide financial help to the bars, but to also introduce people to new music for free.

There's music for everyone, too.

"Sometimes we'll get jazz. Sometimes we'll get Hip Hop, rap, R&B. Whatever your flavor is, we've got music for you," said De León.

That's music to the ears of bar owners trying to get over a summer slump.