Hanover Arts Sips, Savors, and Celebrates This Train Day

Hanover Arts and Activities Center prepares to raise the stein at the 20th annual Ashland Train Day! On Saturday, April 27, get ready to indulge in a brew-tiful experience like no other, as the Center unveils its newest attraction: a beer garden that promises to be the toast of the town.

"We are thrilled to introduce our very own beer garden on the lawn this year," shares Sara Wright-Holloway, Executive Director of the Center. "It's the perfect spot for adults to kick back, relax, and enjoy a cold one while soaking in the festivities."

Pouring on the charm, the beer garden offers a sudsy selection of craft brews that are sure to tantalize every palate. From hoppy IPAs to crisp lagers, there's a brew for every taste bud to savor. Plus, while the grown-ups sip and savor, the kids can frolic and play with lawn games set up nearby.

But the beer garden is just the foamy tip of the iceberg when it comes to the delights awaiting attendees at Ashland Train Day. Step inside the historic walls of the center to marvel at the intricate model train displays, where miniature worlds come alive with detail and imagination. “Hanover Arts has always loved hosting train models in the building,” says Sara. “We love to see the creativity and detail each year!”

Meanwhile, outside, the air will be filled with the lively melodies of the Hanover Concert Band starting at 11 AM, providing the perfect soundtrack to accompany your exploration of the event. And with six food trucks serving up delectable treats, there's no shortage of delights to discover throughout the day.

For the little ones, the Center offers a plethora of pre-school activities indoors on the historic stage, ensuring that every member of the family can join in on the fun.

So gather your friends and family, raise your glasses, and make tracks to the Hanover Arts and Activities Center for a train-tastic celebration that's bound to leave you feeling hoppy and full of cheer!

Ashland Sports Page Bar & Grill Goes to Bat for Train Day

In preparation for Ashland Train Day on April 27, Ashland Sports Page Bar & Grill stepped up to the plate to offer presenting support of the free, family-friendly festival. The restaurant’s donation ensures that this beloved event remains open to everyone, offering fun for kids of all ages.

Family-owned and operated since its inception in 2003, Ashland Sports Page Bar & Grill is more than a sports bar – a hub for sports enthusiasts, and a cornerstone of community camaraderie. With a vision of providing excellent service and delectable food, this establishment has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. With their vision of providing top-notch service and delectable cuisine, Sports Page Bar & Grill is the go-to family restaurant in Ashland.

It's this commitment to the community that makes Ashland Sports Page Bar & Grill the perfect sponsor for Ashland Train Day. Their generous support ensures that this beloved festival remains accessible to all, offering a plethora of activities and attractions completely free of charge. From model trains to trolley rides, from railroad history exhibits to scavenger hunts, attendees can revel in the festivities without worrying about ticket prices.

But it's not just about the trains and the tracks; it's about the spirit of togetherness that permeates every corner of Ashland Train Day. And as attendees gather to celebrate, they'll find themselves surrounded by reminders of Ashland Sports Page Bar & Grill's dedication to our community. From the images of local sporting teams adorning the walls to the welcoming atmosphere that permeates the venue, it's clear that this is more than just a business—it's a part of the fabric of Ashland.

So, as the countdown to Ashland Train Day on April 27 begins, there's no better time to show your support for both the festival and the community that makes it possible. Join Ashland Sports Page Bar & Grill in celebrating this milestone event, and make sure to stop by for a bite to eat while you're here. With their signature jumbo wings voted among of the best in Richmond and an array of screens showcasing local and national sports, it's the perfect place to fuel up for the festivities.

Mark your calendars, spread the word, and get ready to experience Ashland Train Day—free to everyone, thanks to the generosity of Ashland Sports Page Bar & Grill.

Ashland Train Day First Responders Fueled by Wawa

As the sun rises on April 27 in Downtown Ashland, over 200 Ashland Train Day volunteers and first responders will eagerly stream in, ready to keep the festivities fun and free. As The Official Sponsor of the Volunteer & First Responder Headquarters, Wawa works to provide volunteers to ensure Train Day guests stay safe with meals and drinks while bringing “Goose Pride” and fun to guests.

With a hearty spread of meals and drinks, Ashland's Wawa ensures that the whole team is well-fed and energized throughout the day. The Wawa store on England Street is your all-day, everyday stop for freshly prepared beverages, coffee, fuel services, and surcharge-free ATMs at the entrance to Downtown Ashland. 

With the help of their customers, Wawa is able to provide annual support to seven National Partners, including the American Red Cross, Check-Out Hunger, Children’s Miracle Network, JDRF, LLS, Special Olympics, and USO and thousands of local charity partners.

Wawa is committed to the Ashland community, their guiding principles are focused on fulfilling lives, while integrating their six core values (do things right, do the right thing, value people, embrace change, a passion for winning and delighting customers). They allow those values to drive the way their associates interact with customers on a daily basis, while creating a unique experience for each of their customers every day! 

As you embark on your Ashland Train Day adventure, we encourage event attendees to stop by the Wawa booth to say hello to their associates who are full of “Goose Pride,” and onsite giving guests a chance to Wawa swag and food and beverage coupons from their prize wheel!

Ride the Randolph-Macon College Trolley to Train Day

20,000 guests from all over the world travel to Ashland Train Day each year. This year, attendees can look forward to extra fun thanks to Randolph-Macon College's generous sponsorship of the parking shuttle service.

Located in the heart of Ashland, Randolph-Macon College (RMC) is an integral part of the town's vibrant community. With its sprawling 125-acre campus nestled alongside the railroad tracks, RMC stands as a beacon of education and engagement.

As a private, coeducational liberal arts and sciences college, RMC is committed to fostering a sense of inclusivity. That commitment extends beyond the campus borders and into the wider community, as evidenced by their support of Ashland Train Day.

At this year's event, RMC is providing a parking shuttle that will safely transport passengers from the western parking lot at First Baptist Church Ashland (800 Thompson Street) into downtown. Plus, you’ll see our dedicated cleanup volunteers scooting around the event on an RMC golf cart.

Beyond its support of Ashland Train Day, Randolph-Macon College enriches the community through a wide range of events and activities. From sports and art exhibits to lectures and performances, R-MC offers something for everyone–often free and open to the public.

As Ashland gears up for Train Day, Randolph-Macon College invites you to hop on the parking shuttle into town. Join us in celebrating the spirit of community that defines Ashland Train Day, thanks to the generosity of RMC.

Your Path Counseling Center Drives Ashland Train Day’s Free Kiddie Train Rides

All aboard! Your Path Counseling Center is proudly sponsoring a free kiddie train ride at Ashland Train Day on April 27th! Ederis Martinez-Cunion, the visionary behind Your Path, shares how this sponsorship aligns with their mission of promoting mental health and well-being in the community.

"At Your Path, we strongly believe in the power that play and laughter have in healing, specifically when it comes to mental health," Ederis explains. "So, the opportunity to sponsor the kiddie train really aligns with what we are all about."

Your Path Counseling Center is a private practice located in Ashland, VA, dedicated to helping individuals achieve their mental health and life goals through a collaborative approach to therapy. With a team of diverse therapists offering a wide range of specialties, Your Path emphasizes creating a safe, welcoming, and affirming environment for every client.

As families embark on the kiddie train ride sponsored by Your Path Counseling Center, they're not just enjoying a fun activity; they're also experiencing a moment of joy and relaxation that can positively impact their mental well-being. The laughter of children and the smiles of parents on the train mirrors the essence of Your Path's mission – promoting healing through play, creativity, connection, and community.

"I hope that people have a fun-filled day while learning more about all the great businesses and services available here in Ashland–and learning more about trains, of course!" Ederis shares. 

With a free kiddie train ride inviting families to explore the festivities, Ashland Train Day promises to be an event filled with laughter, connection, and a sense of community. Don't miss your chance to join Your Path Counseling Center at Ashland Train Day on April 27th and ride toward wellness and delight!