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| - So that annual rite of spring, Alive After 5 (AA5), is the quintessential social event that snaps us out of those winter blues with some live music, flowing adult beverages and enough people watching to make a person OD, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
Now this is a business. It actually serves a few markets - Charlotte and Jacksonville, Florida. There are sponsors that aid in the promotions via Paschal Promotions and bands are book via East Cost Entertainment.
In Charlotte, they have events in the Wells Fargo (formerly Wachovia) Plaza, EpiCenter, and also Piedmont Town Center (which I cannot personally write about at this time as I haven't attended any events at the last location).
The first 4 weeks kickoff in the Wells Fargo Plaza and though the weather can be a bit unpredictable at times and the temperature bordering on chilly, it is a great time mainly for the fact the space is very wide open and people watching is at its best. Paschal Promotions actually uses the elevated space at the far side of the courtyard for VIP, so add in space for the band and plenty of room to move around and this is what many folks I've talked to has said is the best venue for this event. I was actually there last night and people were lamenting that it was moving to EpiCenter in May and that it will be too crowded and the average age will drop significantly. Basically they were saying that April is the best and the rest is a hit or miss. Sorry EpiCenter, but you evidently have a bad wrap with the older crowd in the Queen City when it comes to this event.
There are multiple beer stands and you can even purchase mixed drinks. The event is free to enter and serves as the largest "happy hour" in the city, though it isn't really a happy hour (i.e. drink specials) as beers cost from $5 to $6 a bottle....liquor I haven't a clue?
It is a fun and casual atmosphere and since it is located in the center city, once the event ends at 10pm sharp. I say sharp because last night at 10:03pm security was literally using bullhorns with sirens to get folks to leave........very uncool. Of course once you leave you have plenty of great restaurants, bars, and even some shopping depending upon how late you stay.
Official After Parties occur at several locations during these events (Whisky River, Suite, and BlackFinn, but only if you have your wristbands on, so remember kiddies, don't tear them off because if you keep them on you will be granted free entry into these after parties.
They have a website which you can check out the band line-up, where to park, and look at picture. In addition you can even sign up for a mailing list or even follow them on Twitter.
Finally, the people watching is priceless. There are a lot of beautiful people that do dress up nicely and attend this event and plenty of folks looking for love......or something that resembles certain aspects of love....or......well, I'll stop there...you get the point.
So if you haven't ventured out on a Thursday in the Center City, then check out Alive After 5 (at the EpiCenter starting in May) and have a drink on me!
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