The Wednesday Wind Down
Last Wednesday – a steamy, sultry, 98˚ in the shade June evening – I packed up my bags after a long day at work, changed into some jeans and a floppy summer hat, and headed down to Centennial Park to check out the longest running free concert series in Atlanta: The Wednesday Wind Down. I expected to enjoy myself…but instead I had a blast. I expected to enjoy good live music… but instead I sang and danced for two plus hours non-stop. I expected to enjoy a summer night in the city… but instead I felt like I was on vacation. After just a few minutes in the park, I realized why The Wednesday Wind Down has stood the test of time – it absolutely rocks.
With its diverse line-up of Atlanta artists, no two Wednesday Wind Down events can possibly be the same, but the show on June 8th really seemed to represent everything this concert series has to offer. Long-time Atlanta favorites Quinn and Jukebox kept the audience out of their lawn chairs and up on their feet with a crowd-pleasing set of old school to new school favorites which included Bobby Brown’s “Every Little Step”, Guy’s “I Like”, Biggie Smalls’ “Big Papa”, Montell Jordan’s “This is How We Do It”, and Tupac and Dr. Dre’s “California Love” just to name a few. Concert goers young and old sang and danced along to Quinn and Jukebox’s high-energy performance, and still wanted more when the show ended at 8. I did too.
The vibe at Centennial Park has come a long way since the Wednesday Wind Down concerts began 14 years ago. What once used to attract only a handful of casual passersby to what was essentially just a large open space, has now become a destination for hundreds if not tens of hundreds of music lovers who come equipped with chairs and blankets, ready to party. As I walked through the crowd, everyone seemed to be genuinely enjoying themselves. Strategically placed vendors sell frozen lemonades, daiquiris, pizza, and ice cream, and a Googie Burger just behind the stage offers delicious delights hot off the grill. DJs from KISS 104.1 kick off the show and keep the party doing during the performer’s intermission, and event promoters provide flyers and free tickets to upcoming concerts and comedy shows in and around the community.
I'm so glad I finally ventured out to the Wednesday Wind Down at Centennial Olympic Park. This event truly showcases some of the best resources our city has to offer: talented musical artists in a family-friendly park with that Atlanta skyline shining in the light of the setting sun. The concerts continue every Wednesday until September. Make sure you grab a friend or two and get to one this summer. You'll be glad that you did.
This free event is appropriate for all ages.