On most weekday afternoons a few people can be seen scattered along the brick walk of the Downtown Mall. Past the statues, fountains and numerous shops and restaurants, quiet and still during the week, lies the amphitheater. Those who venture far enough down the mall to see it on a normal weekday may wonder what it is used for, or why it is even there. This, however, is not the case on Fridays.
Beginning early in the afternoon, the amphitheater, as well as the entire mall, comes to life. Filled practically to a bursting capacity, the cramped walkway is packed with concert-goers from all walks of Charlottesville life. Fridays after 5, a concert series presented by the Charlottesville Downtown Foundation, is an event that the Web site boasts as being "Central Virginia's Premier Outdoor Concert Series."
Although the majority of the crowd is composed of middle-aged adults, many bring along their small children. Patches of college students, high school age kids and even senior citizens also can be spotted throughout the area.
"Once five o'clock hits, it's the weekend," third-year College student Christie Jones said. "The best way for me to unwind and truly get pumped up for my weekend is to enjoy a nice night with friends on the Downtown Mall at Fridays after 5. The music, the friends, the atmosphere
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