DeKalb After 5:01

The laptop closes, the meetings wrap up and the clock hits 5:01. In DeKalb County, the end of the workday is just the beginning. From happy hour and incredible eats to live music, outdoor escapes, arts and entertainment, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your evening without waiting for the weekend.

5:01 PM: Clock Out

Leave the desk behind and let the evening take you somewhere new. Meet up with friends for drinks, explore one of DeKalb’s downtown districts or finally stop by that local spot you’ve been meaning to try. Whether you’re unwinding with coworkers or turning an ordinary weeknight into an impromptu night out, there’s always a reason to stick around after five.

6:30 PM: Grab a Bite

When dinner calls, DeKalb serves up flavors from around the world. Explore the international eats along Buford Highway, settle into a neighborhood favorite or venture somewhere completely new. From casual bites to date-night dining, your after-work meal can easily become the highlight of the evening.

7:45 PM: See What’s Happening

Keep the night going with live music, a local performance, an evening stroll or one of the festivals, markets and community events happening throughout the county. DeKalb’s arts, culture and entertainment scene offers plenty of ways to add a little something unexpected to your weeknight.

9:15 PM: One More Stop

There’s always room for one more stop before heading home. Grab dessert, find a late-night bite or keep the conversation going a little longer. Some of the best evenings are the ones that weren’t planned at all—and in DeKalb, you never know where 5:01 might take you.