Train Day — News — Downtown Ashland, Virginia

Train Day

Train Day Packs Big Volunteer Perks

Every year, Ashland Train Day’s locomotive celebration brings thousands of visitors from around the world to the Center of the Universe. But behind every whistle and wave, there’s a team of over 100 dedicated volunteers keeping things chugging along. Saturday, April 26, is your chance to hop on board!

Volunteering at Ashland Train Day isn’t just about lending a hand—it’s about hoping a board community spirt. Whether you’re handing out maps, supporting artists and entrepreneurs, or making sure every guest has a smooth ride through the festivities, your efforts help create the magic that makes Train Day unforgettable. Plus, volunteering with Downtown Ashland Association, a Main Street America-accredited nonprofit, means your hours count toward community service. You’ll even receive a digital, printable service sheet to turn in, complete with a signature from the friendly volunteer coordinator at headquarters.

And speaking of headquarters, there’s a first-class stop just for you! The Dominion Energy Innovation Center, normally home to entrepreneurs shaping a net-zero future (and the Downtown Ashland Association’s offices), transforms into Volunteer Headquarters for the day, thanks to the generous support of Wawa and Jersey Mike’s. Need a pick-me-up before your shift? Ashland’s Wawa, stationed at 100 N. Washington Hwy, will keep volunteers and first responders fueled with coffee, water, and breakfast treats. Swing by their booth on Robinson Street for snacks, smiles, and a high-five from Wally Goose himself. By lunchtime, Ashland’s own Jersey Mike’s (708 England Street) will be stacking Volunteer Headquarters with fresh subs to keep you rolling.

Of course, no great journey is complete without a few delicious detours! Volunteers can enjoy tokens for treats from some of Ashland’s finest eateries and food trucks. Whether you’re craving a homemade sandwich from the beloved Homemades by Suzanne, watching the artistry of Monique’s Crêpes as she crafts delicate French delights, or indulging in the legendary flavors of Strawberry Street Catering, there’s something for every palate. Auntie Alice’s Kettle Corn, Hungry Hungry Arrow’s frybread and Indian tacos, and more will keep the energy high as you make your way through the festival.

Beyond the food and fun, Train Day volunteers receive a special token of appreciation—a limited-edition Ashland Train Day shirt, designed by Geoff Stone and printed by Minuteman Press of Ashland. These coveted cotton tees are only available online, making volunteering your best ticket to scoring one of these exclusive designs.

Community groups are also getting on board in a big way! ARC of Hanover will be bringing their Thrift Store from Glen Allen to their booth on Robinson Street, advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. St. Ann’s Knights of Columbus will be working hard behind the scenes to keep Ashland spotless—ensuring our beloved festival is as clean as a freshly polished Amtrak train car. And New Community Church is stepping up in a big way, with over 60 volunteers keeping the Kid Zone on track with bounce houses, obstacle courses, face painting, games, and family-friendly fun in the Ashland Branch Library parking lot on 201 S Railroad Ave.

Supporting our first responders is more important than ever. While the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad recovers from the fire that displaced them in February, Ashland’s CareNow Urgent Care is stepping in to provide world-class First Aid support—and a bit of fun—at the Dominion Energy Innovation Center. Meanwhile, Ashland’s Police Department will be working tirelessly to keep Train Day safe and welcoming for all. Want to show your appreciation? You can support the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad by signing up for their meal train and helping provide a warm meal or comfort item during their time of need.

Ready to jump on board? Sign up today to be part of the action at AshlandTrainDay.com. Whether you’re handing out prizes, assisting visitors, or just bringing your best enthusiasm, there’s a role for everyone. And if you live or work along the event route, don’t forget to set out your County Waste trash and recycling bins a day early—it’s a simple way to show your community spirit and keep Ashland looking its best for over 20,000 attendees.

So, what do you say? Let’s keep Ashland Train Day running full steam ahead—one volunteer at a time!

Amtrak is Your Ticket to Ride Ashland Train Day

Ashland Train Day is rolling into town on April 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM, and there’s no better way to arrive than by train! With up to 50 CSX and Amtrak trains passing through Ashland daily, our town is truly a rail-lover’s paradise. But on this special day, there’s one train experience that stands out above the rest—riding Amtrak Virginia straight into the heart of the celebration.

Skip the Parking Hassle—Ride in Style

The beauty of taking Amtrak to Ashland Train Day is that it drops you off right at the Ashland Train Station, also home to the Ashland Visitors Center. No need to search for parking or trek from a shuttle stop—with a quick step off the train, you’re instantly in the middle of the fun. Downtown Ashland transforms into a lively hub of train-themed entertainment, shopping, and dining, and there’s no better way to start the adventure than by rolling in on the rails.

Comfort, Convenience, and Virginia Favorites

Amtrak Virginia doesn’t just get you there; it makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. With spacious seating, plenty of storage for strollers and shopping bags, and a relaxing ride that lets you sit back and enjoy the view, it’s a stress-free way to travel. And for those looking to sip on something local, Amtrak’s café cars feature Virginia-made products, including Brewski from Center of the Universe Brewing Company. Supporting local businesses while cruising to Ashland Train Day? That’s a win-win!

Fun for the Whole Family

Traveling with little ones? Amtrak makes it easy with half-price tickets for children and engaging activities to keep them entertained. Unlike a long car ride where restlessness can take over, a train ride is an adventure in itself—watching the scenery pass by, walking through the cars, and enjoying the unique experience of train travel. It’s an exciting prelude to a day filled with locomotive-themed fun in downtown Ashland.

Can’t Take the Train? We’ve Got You Covered

For those who can’t enjoy the luxury of arriving by rail, there are still plenty of ways to get to the event. Free public parking areas with shuttle service will be available starting at 11 AM at the following locations:

  • Green Parking Area (East): Ashland-Junction Shopping Center, 167 Junction Drive

  • Purple Parking Area (East): Ashland Hanover Shopping Center, 251 N. Washington Hwy

  • Red Parking Area (West): First Baptist Church Ashland, 800 Thompson St

Shuttles and trolleys will run throughout the day, with the last pickup at 3:45 PM, ensuring everyone can get to and from the event with ease.

Enter to Win Your Next Train Adventure

If Ashland Train Day has you dreaming of your next rail journey, don’t miss the chance to win one of our two exciting train raffles!

Amtrak East Coast Getaway Raffle

Enter for a chance to win two Amtrak tickets to any destination along the East Coast! Whether you're dreaming of a scenic retreat, a city escape, or a coastal adventure, this raffle could be your ticket to ride. The winner also receives a $25 gift card to Center of the Universe Brewing Company, five Brewski hats, and bragging rights as the lucky traveler of the year. Raffle proceeds support Downtown Ashland Association’s non-profit mission, and the winner will be announced on April 25.

Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
$10.00

Ashland Santa Train Raffle

Looking for a magical holiday experience? Win six tickets to the December 2025 Ashland Santa Train, sponsored by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys! This festive round-trip excursion to Colonial Williamsburg includes complimentary coffee and cocoa with Mrs. Claus, onboard entertainment with Santa and his elves, and a visit to Merchants Square for holiday shopping. The winner will be notified in October 2025.

Raffle - Ashland Santa Train
$10.00

Join Us for a Day of Train-Filled Fun!

No matter how you get here, Ashland Train Day promises a celebration filled with history, entertainment, and plenty of rail-themed excitement. But if you want the full experience—from the moment you leave home to the final whistle—Amtrak Virginia is the way to go. Climb aboard, sit back, and let the train take you straight into the heart of the action. See you at the station!

Ashland Train Day Returns for 21st Year

Ashland Train Day returns for its 21st year in historic downtown Ashland on April 26, 2025, thanks to Virtual Railfan, Amtrak, and CSX. From 11 AM to 4 PM, the town known as the Center of the Universe will transform into a railfan’s paradise, where locomotive history meets small-town charm for a day packed with interactive experiences, family fun, and a deep appreciation for the iron rails that built Ashland.

“Ashland Train Day is our tribute to the trains that built downtown,” says “Coach” Antonio Miller, Executive Director of Downtown Ashland Association. With over 12 fully loaded CSX freight trains and Amtrak passenger trains rolling through town during the event, Ashland Train Day is an immersive festival known around the world.

2025 Ashland Train Day Map

From real trains to model trains, the entire town transforms into a railway wonderland! Blue Ridge Live Steamers and Titan Trains will roll into the Hanover Arts and Activities Center with a steam engine, diesel engine, and two cars ready for interactive exploration. Enthusiasts will marvel at model train displays of all sizes, vintage railroad equipment, and a classic red caboose, while little conductors climb aboard the Kiddie Train Ride, sponsored by Your Path Counseling Center, for a delightful tour of the festivities. Over at the Firetruck Experience, courtesy of PlayRVA, guests can hop in, explore, and even ride along! Excitement continues with RCI Builders’ Touch-a-Truck showcase, featuring fire trucks, ambulances, dump trucks, and tractors for hands-on discovery. In the Kid Zone, sponsored by New Community Church, children can bounce, race, play games, visit family-friendly vendors like MacaroniKid, and get their faces painted in a high-energy hub of fun. Adventurers can take a spooky turn with the Ashland Haunted History Tours or enjoy railroad-themed stories and tunes with Matthew Dodd at the Ashland Branch Library. For those with a keen eye, the Picture Scavenger Hunt leads guests through downtown’s most picturesque spots—connect three stops and claim a prize from Tiny Tim’s Toys and Trains at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center.

No festival is complete without great music and delicious eats! Center Street Sound Company’s Party in the Pavilion will keep spirits high with family-friendly music all day long, featuring the Hanover Concert Band at 11 AM, followed by Free Jambalaya and Friends at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. Hungry festival-goers can grab a bite from 15 food trucks offering everything from classic festival favorites to Caribbean cuisine, while downtown’s locally owned shops and restaurants open their doors with handcrafted goods and farm-to-fork dining. Over 60 local artists will line the sidewalks with handcrafted jewelry, woodcrafts, crochet, soaps, and more.

Volunteer

A festival of this scale takes more than tracks and timetables—it requires a dedicated crew. More than 100 volunteers and first responders keep Ashland Train Day running smoothly, fueled by the generosity of local businesses. Minuteman Press of Ashland is providing volunteers with commemorative Train Day t-shirts, while beloved local eateries—including Homemades by Suzanne, Monique’s Crepes, Strawberry Street Catering, Alice Auntie Alice’s Kettle Corn, and Fun Stuff 4 Kids—are serving up complimentary meals. Wawa is stepping up as the Volunteer and First Responder Signature Sponsor, catering breakfast and lunch inside the Dominion Energy Innovation Center to show appreciation for their service while Wally Goose tours around town.

For those who prefer their engines with wheels instead of rails, RCI Builders’ Touch-a-Truck attraction is back, giving guests the chance to explore fire trucks, ambulances, bucket trucks, and more. PlayRVA is taking the experience a step further by offering rides in a firetruck, letting visitors feel the thrill of the road. “This gives kids a hands-on experience inside the trucks, letting them feel what it’s like on the road!” says PlayRVA owner Taylor Pace. “It’s a rare and unique opportunity only we offer.”

The festival is made possible by the unwavering support of its signature sponsors, including Virtual Railfan, CSX Transportation and the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA). CSX’s Community Service Grant helps bring this beloved event to life, while VPRA celebrates Ashland’s railroad history while looking to the future. “The railroad is such a big part of Ashland. The tracks literally run right through the Center of the Universe,” says DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of VPRA. “Our sponsorship is the perfect opportunity to promote Amtrak Virginia service because, as the railroad is a huge part of Ashland’s history, we are committed to being a vital part of its future.”

The connection runs even deeper—last summer, Amtrak Virginia introduced Brewski, a locally crafted beer from Ashland’s own Center of the Universe Brewing Company, to its café car menu. This addition supports Virginia’s initiative to boost local businesses while enhancing the passenger experience. Festival-goers can also try their luck in an exclusive Amtrak raffle, with the chance to win two tickets to any destination along the East Coast. With a year to redeem and endless travel possibilities, the winner’s next adventure could start right here in Ashland. Proceeds from the raffle will support the Downtown Ashland Association’s nonprofit mission.

Order your exclusive 2025 Ashland Train Day apparel online with Minuteman Press of Ashland

For those eager to commemorate the day, Minuteman Press of Ashland has made sure that guests can easily find their way through festivities with maps, scavenger hunt cards, and exclusive 2025 Ashland Train Day apparel. Limited-edition tees, hoodies, trucker hats, and more are available now online, with a limited supply available in-person at Downtown Ashland Association’s information tent.

“Ashland is proud to host Train Day and welcome visitors from across our region and around the world to celebrate with us,” says Ashland Mayor Steve Trivett. “Come see why we consider Ashland the Center of the Universe!” Visitors can catch a shuttle to the event or, for the full railfan experience, arrive by Amtrak, where children’s tickets are half-price, and special onboard activities add to the festivities. Don’t forget to stop by the café car to toast the occasion with a Brewski from Center of the Universe Brewing Company.

Mark your calendar and gather your crew for Ashland Train Day on April 26, 2025, from 11 AM - 4 PM! For event details, volunteer opportunities, and more, visit AshlandTrainDay.com.

VPRA Celebrates Trains

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA) is pleased to celebrate Ashland Train Day by bringing passengers to the “Center of the Universe” on board our daily Amtrak Virginia passenger rail service.  With departures south to Richmond, Williamsburg, Newport News, and Norfolk and north to Alexandria, Washington, DC, and points further north including Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York City, traveling on board Amtrak Virginia is the easiest way to visit Ashland. 

The number of Amtrak Virginia passengers choosing Ashland has grown recently with 38,689 boarding or alighting in historic downtown Ashland last year.  That was up from 33,785 in 2023, and through the efforts of VPRA and our partners, we are working to ensure that number continues to grow.    

“The railroad is such a big part of Ashland.  The tracks literally run right through the Center of the Universe,” said DJ Stadtler, Executive Director of the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority.  “The VPRA team looks forward to participating in Ashland Train Day, and our sponsorship is the perfect opportunity to promote our Amtrak Virginia service because as the railroad is a huge part of Ashland’s history, we are committed to being a vital part of its future.”

Who is VPRA?

In 2020 the Virginia General Assembly, seeking a meaningful solution to the state’s ever-growing traffic problem, created the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority and tasked it with managing and expanding the state’s Amtrak Virginia service as well as implementing the Commonwealth’s $5 billion Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) initiative.  TRV is changing the future of rail transportation in Virginia by acquiring railroad right-of-way, increasing rail capacity, and reworking passenger and freight operations to improve reliability and increase rail service in Virginia.  The long-term goal is to separate freight and passenger rail services to improve the on-time performance of both.  Work has already begun on TRV, and once Phase 2 projects are complete, VPRA will fund a total of 13 daily Amtrak Virginia roundtrips, up from the current eight, along four corridors between Washington, DC and Roanoke, Newport News, Norfolk, and Richmond, with some trains making stops in Ashland.

Amtrak Virginia Service

Our state-supported Amtrak Virginia service travels through the Commonwealth and offers a one-seat ride from Ashland through to Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor.  Last year 1.389 million passengers traveled on Amtrak Virginia, an increase of 4.8% over 2023 and setting a record for ridership on the service.

To provide the best experience for passengers on board, VPRA works closely with Amtrak as operator of our state-supported service.  As a part of that, VPRA recently partnered with the Amtrak Food & Beverage Working Group (FBWG) to offer Virginia products in our café cars. The FBWG called upon Amtrak to establish a formal process for states to sell locally-sourced products on their respective state-supported routes, and Virginia was selected as a pilot state.  

As a result, last summer we began offering a local craft beer – Brewski -- for sale in the café cars of our Amtrak Virginia trains.  Brewski is a product of the Center of the Universe Brewing Company located in the heart of historic Ashland next to the railroad tracks.  The addition of Brewski to the menu aids Virginia in meeting the FBWG goals to cultivate partnerships with local producers, boost the local food and beverage industry, and improve the overall customer experience on trains.  So, the next time you’re on board, support an Ashland-based small business and order a Brewski!

Long Bridge

In addition to Amtrak Virginia, the team at VPRA is also working hard on its Transforming Rail initiative.  The largest of TRV’s projects, Long Bridge is a new two-track railroad bridge across the Potomac River that will connect Arlington, Virginia with Washington, DC allowing for the expansion of rail service in the state to meet future demand.  The new 2-track Long Bridge will be built next to the current 2-track Long Bridge, a 119-year old river crossing that currently operates at 98% capacity during peak periods.  The existing Long Bridge will remain and will be dedicated solely to freight rail.  

The new Long Bridge, which VPRA is funding and building, will be strategically placed between the existing Long Bridge and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s (WMATA) Yellow Line bridge and will relieve one of the worst rail traffic bottlenecks on the East Coast.  The project encompasses approximately 1.8 miles of improvements including seven rail bridges and pedestrian bridges over land, the Potomac River, and related railroad infrastructure and will be dedicated solely to passenger rail.

TRV’s portfolio of projects in Northern Virginia includes additional tracks, sidings, rail bridges, and a bypass structure.  The plans are ambitious but necessary. The planned passenger rail improvements will extend along the corridor from L’Enfant just outside of Washington Union Station, across the Potomac River, and south to Spotsylvania County and will allow VPRA to expand rail service in the state.  

VPRA has made great strides in developing a state-supported passenger rail service that works for Virginians.  It will take cars off our roads, protect our environment, and provide an option for those who cannot drive due to accessibility issues.  Through our current Amtrak Virginia service and our TRV expansion projects, rail will soon be top-of-mind for those traveling to and through the Commonwealth.  

Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
$10.00

Enter our raffle for your chance to win TWO Amtrak tickets to anywhere along the East Coast! Whether you're dreaming of a scenic getaway, a city escape, or a coastal retreat, crack open a can of Center of the Universe Brewski and climb on board! Your ticket to ride is just a lucky draw away.

🎟 Your golden ticket includes:
🚆 Two Amtrak tickets valid for any East Coast destination
🍻 $25 Center of the Universe Brewing Company Gift Card
🧢 5 Brewski Hats
📅 Redeemable for up to one year from the issue date
⚠️ Some blackout dates apply (mostly federal holidays)

Don’t miss your chance to embark on the journey of a lifetime—grab your raffle tickets now before this opportunity leaves the station! 🚉💨

Raffle proceeds benefit Downtown Ashland Association’s non-profit mission.

The winner will receive an email from Downtown Ashland Association on Friday, April 25.

PlayRVA’s Firetruck Experience Rolls into Ashland Train Day!

Ashland Train Day is about to heat up—literally! On April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM, visitors to the 21st annual Ashland Train Day will have the chance to ride in style with PlayRVA’s Firetruck Experience. Stationed on Thompson Street and making its way around Ashland Town Hall, this unique attraction offers an interactive adventure that transforms an ordinary day into an extraordinary experience.

From Touching to Touring: A Hands-On Firetruck Adventure

While the popular Touch-a-Truck attraction at Ashland Train Day lets guests get up close to massive machines, PlayRVA takes the excitement a step further by inviting attendees to climb aboard and experience a firetruck in motion! Taylor Pace, owner of PlayRVA, shares his enthusiasm: “This gives kids a hands-on experience inside the trucks, letting them feel what it’s like on the road! It’s a rare and unique opportunity only we offer.”

But the PlayRVA Firetruck Experience isn’t just about the ride—it’s about the full package. Guests can explore the firetruck, take scenic rides through Ashland Town Hall, enjoy entertainment on two flat-screen TVs, snack on fresh popcorn, marvel at exciting exterior lighting effects, snap countless photos, and, most importantly, create unforgettable memories.

“This really is a fun and unique activity at every event we attend,” says Pace. “We’re proud to offer something that brings so much joy to kids and families.”

A Family Legacy Steams into the Center of the Universe

For Pace, bringing the Firetruck Experience to Ashland Train Day is more than just business—it’s a return to his roots. “I grew up on Center Street, from my days at Liberty Middle School to Patrick Henry High School,” he shares. His deep Ashland ties trace back to his family’s role in the Herald-Progress Newspaper, where his father, Steve, served as General Manager and his aunt and uncle, Jay and Pat Pace, were the owners. “All of my first jobs were there, from working in the bindery department to delivering papers and selling ads. That experience taught me how to work hard and set me on the path to becoming an entrepreneur.”

Igniting Smiles and Making Memories

PlayRVA began as a trackless train company but quickly expanded to include firetrucks. Recognizing an opportunity to offer something truly special, Pace built the only Firetruck Experience in the state. “We’re the only place where you can rent a firetruck to explore and take rides,” he says proudly. “All of our drivers are retired firefighters!”

When asked about his favorite moments, Pace finds it difficult to choose just one. “Honestly, they’re all my favorite. When we’re not at a party or event, just getting to drive the trucks around is so much fun. But at events, seeing families and kids so excited—it’s impossible to pick just one great moment. They’re all fantastic.”

Full Steam Ahead: Why You Should Support Ashland Train Day

PlayRVA’s Firetruck Experience is coming to Ashland Train Day as an in-kind sponsorship, helping to make this beloved, free, family-friendly festival even more unforgettable. Businesses looking to showcase their brand while supporting the community have a golden opportunity to climb aboard as well!

By becoming a sponsor of Ashland Train Day, businesses gain invaluable benefits, including brand exposure to over 20,000 attendees, promotional access to millions of Train Day’s international viewers, a featured news article promoted to more than 30,000 followers, on-screen advertising at Ashland Theatre, complimentary promotional space at the event, and professional photography capturing their sponsorship in action.

For more details on sponsorship opportunities, visit Ashland Train Day Sponsorships.

Don’t Miss the Ride of a Lifetime!

Whether you’re a firetruck fan, a train enthusiast, or just looking for an unforgettable family outing, the PlayRVA Firetruck Experience is a must-do at Ashland Train Day. “I hope people leave with an extra experience to remember and talk about,” says Pace. “Alongside all the other great things they’ll get to see and do on Train Day.”

So mark your calendars, grab your tickets to ride, and get ready for a high-energy, high-impact adventure that will leave you fired up for Ashland Train Day!