The biggest after-work/happy hour/kickoff to the weekend party on Thursdays is coming back in April.

On April 7, Alive After 5 returns to the streets of Uptown, kicking off with a live performance by N.C.-based band Liquid Pleasure. Through the month of April, Alive After 5 will be hosted at Wachovia Plaza, its home for the first eight years (by the way, did you know Alive After 5 has been going down for 10 years now? Crazy, isn't it?). Beginning Cinco de Mayo, the party shifts down the street to EpiCentre at the Pavilion. And here are some of the upgrades you'll find at the Pavilion party spot.

When AA5 returns to EpiCentre, guests will notice significant enhancements to Pavilion, including the addition of greenery, cherry trees, permanent water features, welcoming shaded areas and relaxing seating. A new Beer Garden is also on tap for Pavilion, which will serve import, specialty and craft beers during Alive After Five.

Weather won’t dampen Thursday afternoons at Pavilion in 2011 with the implementation of a new When it Rains, We Pour promotion. Pavilion has purchased two huge tents to keep guests sheltered from the elements during summer showers, so when it rains, Alive After Five will pour with drink specials, including discounted beer prices any time there is inclement weather during Alive After Five.

There will also be added dining elements once Alive After Five returns to Pavilion in May. Each Thursday during the Alive After Five EpiCentre season, all restaurants at the popular entertainment destination will offer special $20 menus, allowing guests to enjoy multi-course feasts at their favorite EpiCentre eateries. All restaurants at EpiCentre will also offer complimentary passed hors d'oeuvres during Alive After Five the first Thursday of every month from May through September.

Other special themed nights are also in the works for Alive After Five, as is a new Business of the Week program, which will reward one business each week with complimentary VIP access and drink tickets. Details on these and other special events will be posted on AliveAfterFives.com as they become available.

Yeah, sounds like Alive After 5 has taken it to another level. Will I see you out there? You know spring hasn't truly sprung until you're hanging out at the Pavilion with an icy cold Budlight in broad daylight.