The stories that get us through the dreary Monday’s, and the reason for the countdown beginning on Wednesday: Friday Night.

Whether you’re respite from a grueling week is curled up at home with a good book or a wild night out with the girls this is the time to be free. Society is geared towards opportunities for the excitement that kick-off the weekend. Music festivals, football games, and dances: are all staples of this magical night.

On the first Friday of every month, many large towns close down main street to hold their First Friday celebrations. Weaving between classic cars you catch snippets of conversation and music dancing around you. The mouthwatering aromas of pretzels, Connie’s cones, grilled burgers, and boiled peanuts bring your recently full stomach to life with a growl. Walking past Peyton Sawyer’s Comet, Mia Thermopolis’ blue mustang, and a Smokey and the Bandit Edition Trans-Am inspired unwitting smiles of nostalgia. The shops that are opened late welcome the window shoppers and ensnare you with enchanting wares and sales.

The easy conversation about this and that create a camaraderie that lives long past the roads reopen. Hidden alcoves and secret wonders that are discoverable in the magic of a Friday night. Nights that turned into mornings with strangers who became best friends. Tone deaf karaoke singing to the radio that is blasting as you race down the streets illuminated by the moon and the stars. This is the night to be wild and free.