The time has come, dear friends, to gather downtown across from the Eckerd on North Tyron Street to listen to music and drink beers with friends, some old but most new. Center City Alive After Five has become the place to see and be seen for Charlotte's young urban professionals. "It's what you do on Thursdays!" The event series ends Aug. 30.5:30-9:30 p.m. Wachovia Plaza, Corner of 2nd and Tryon. 704-339-0100. www.charlottecentercity.org.