4th of July Guide to Ashland’s Free Patriotic Party

Downtown Ashland, known affectionately as the "Center of the Universe," is gearing up for a star-spangled Fourth of July celebration that promises fun for the whole family. The Hanover Arts and Activities Center returns as the host for the 4th of July fun so mark your calendar and get ready to enjoy a day filled with community spirit and patriotic pride.

A Sweet Start: Apple Pie Baking Contest

The day kicks off with the Apple Pie Baking Contest. From 9:30 to 10:30 AM, bakers will drop off their entries, hoping to earn top honors. With awards for the most patriotic pie and the best kid’s pie (for young bakers under 11), this contest is a delicious way to showcase local talent. The judging will take place from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, culminating in an exciting announcement of the winners at 12:30 PM. The winning pies will be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting the Hanover Arts and Activities Center.

Registration

Lawn Party Extravaganza

At 12:00 PM, the lawn party begins in earnest. Attendees can indulge in a variety of foods, participate in games, and cheer on their favorite pets in the Patriotic Pet Contest. The contest kicks off at 11:30 AM, inviting all leashed pets—be they cats, dogs, or even donkeys—to compete for a prize worth barking about. The top three pets will be announced alongside the pie contest winners at 12:30 PM.

Step into the Parade

At 10:30 AM, participants will line up for the much-anticipated parade at Henry Clay Elementary School. By 11:00 AM, the parade will step off on Hanover Avenue, making its way to The Center. This year’s parade features patriotic bikes, pets dressed in red, white, and blue, the melodious Cacophony of the Universe Marching Band, and the famous Lawn Chair Brigade, known for their choreographed marches. There’s even a spot for you and your creative brigade ideas—just remember to keep it patriotic and submit your form to join the fun.

Join the Parade

Musical Moments and More

The patriotic vibes will hit a high note at 11:45 AM with the presentation of colors and a rousing concert by the Hanover Concert Band on the lawn. This performance is a perfect prelude to the day’s main event, offering a moment to reflect and celebrate our nation’s heritage.

Dress the Part

Don’t forget to dress for the occasion! An Ashland 4th of July t-shirt is the perfect attire for the day, with all proceeds from sales supporting the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. Show off your community pride and join in the festivities looking your best.

Order July 4th Fashion

This Fourth of July, Ashland invites you to be part of a community celebration that’s brimming with small-town charm and patriotic spirit. From delicious pies to a lively parade, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Come on down to the Center of the Universe and make this Independence Day one to remember.

Downtown Ashland Association Earns Accreditation

Downtown Ashland Association is celebrating a significant achievement: earning Main Street America accreditation for the 11th consecutive year. This recognition underscores the association's unwavering commitment to revitalizing and promoting Ashland’s historic downtown through comprehensive programming and community engagement.

Main Street America supports communities nationwide through the Main Street Approach™ and a wide array of programs in economic development, historic preservation, urban planning, finance, and public affairs. Downtown Ashland Association’s accreditation is a testament to its excellence in these areas, as reflected in its near-perfect score from Main Street America representatives.

The accreditation process involved a thorough assessment using a national rubric that evaluates organizations in six categories. Downtown Ashland Association received an impressive overall rating of 4.5, excelling in areas such as broad-based community commitment, inclusive leadership, diversified funding, sustainable program operation, strategy-driven programming, preservation-based economic development, and demonstrated impact and results.

“We are very proud of our accreditation results,” said Downtown Ashland Association Board President E.G. Allen. “Our Executive Director Maggie Longest worked very hard in the 2024 fiscal year not only to comply with the Main Street fundamentals but to expand the reach of the Downtown Ashland Association into even greater opportunities for Ashland businesses through increased grant opportunities and even larger attendance at our Downtown Ashland events, and in combination with the efforts of our Board of Directors, the accreditation results confirmed those efforts.”

Since 2013, Downtown Ashland Association has been a recognized leader among over 1,200 neighborhoods and communities in the Main Street America network. Their success is rooted in the tireless efforts of volunteers, business owners, and community leaders who work collaboratively to enhance and promote Downtown Ashland. From marketing initiatives and special events to business engagement and economic development, the association’s initiatives contribute significantly to the town’s vitality.

Signature events like Ashland Train Day and Light Up the Tracks, along with community-building activities such as Ashland Fourth Fridays and Ashland Halloween, draw visitors and residents tens of thousands to the historic downtown, creating dynamic and memorable experiences. Marketing campaigns, such as promotions on behalf of Secretariat for Virginia, have garnered millions of media impressions, further boosting Downtown Ashland’s visibility.

The association also plays a pivotal role in supporting local businesses. In 2023 alone, it secured two grants totaling $175,000 from the Virginia Main Street Program, funding free workshops, business handbooks, pitch competitions, and mentoring programs. These efforts foster a business-friendly environment and promote local patronage through partnerships with organizations like Market Ashland Partnership and Hanover Chamber of Commerce.

Preserving Ashland’s unique character and history is another cornerstone of the association’s mission. Collaborations with the Ashland Museum and Hanover County Black Heritage Society ensure that the town’s rich heritage is celebrated and preserved for future generations.

To continue this impactful work, Downtown Ashland Association invites community members to become VIP members. By supporting the association, VIP members will help sustain and expand programming that makes Ashland a vibrant and thriving community.

For more information on becoming a VIP member and supporting Downtown Ashland Association, visit AshlandVirginia.com/VIP. 

Ashland Fourth Fridays: Your Free Ticket to a Fantastic Friday Night!

Mark your calendars, folks! June’s Ashland Fourth Fridays on June 28 promises to be a night to remember. From 5 PM to 8 PM, downtown Ashland will come alive with music, art, and culinary delights that will make you wish every day was Friday.

Dance, Dance, Dance!

Kicking off the evening with some flair, the Ashland Dance Academy returns to the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. Their latest toe-tapping dance numbers are sure to dazzle and inspire. Come cheer on the next generation of Ashland’s performing artists as they light up the stage.

Rock and Roll Vibes

At 5 PM, get ready for The Grandson’s Duo to blow the lid off the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion with their all-American rock vibes. With guitar and bass in hand, they’ll set the perfect soundtrack for your evening, making it impossible not to tap your feet along.

Artistic Adventures and Ghostly Games

For those with an eye for art and a love for the quirky, Ashland Tattoo Company hosts the Curio Fairy’s unique jewelry, while Immagine LLC will be outside Ashland Meat Company, showcasing live art and paintings. Looking for a thrill? Join the Ashland Haunted History Tours to explore the darker side of the Center of the Universe, or enjoy some ghoulish games with RED VEIN Escape.

Culinary Delights

No Fourth Friday is complete without some mouthwatering eats. Cross the tracks for farm-to-table fresh fare from The Caboose, The Iron Horse, and Trackside Kitchen and Wine. If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, grab a new brew from Origin Beer Company. And don’t forget to cool down with some farm-fresh sweetness from Farmview Creamery’s truck, conveniently located at Ashland Town Hall.

Late Night Shopping

As you stroll through downtown, take advantage of the extended shopping hours at some of Ashland's most charming stores. The Ashland Museum will be sharing the town's rich history and offering exclusive Secretariat Dedication Day merchandise. At Refunkit, you'll find a delightful array of funky, handcrafted art and unique gifts. For those with a taste for the finer things, The Shop at 112 invites you to peruse their collection of posh antiques and collectibles. And don't miss Tiny Tims Trains and Toys, where unique toys and games await to delight kids and the young at heart, ages 0 to 99. The “Free to Read” library is giving away books beside the Ashland Branch Library.

Calling All Musicians!

Dreaming of performing on the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion stage? Now’s your chance! Submit your song to the Ashland Songwriting Contest and you could win big prizes and a spot on Ashland’s biggest stages. Visit AshlandFourthFridays.com for more information.

So, gather your friends and family, and head to downtown Ashland on June 28. Ashland Fourth Fridays are free to attend - filled with fun, food, and festivities. See you there!

Juneteenth Celebration Guide in Downtown Ashland

Picture taken of Creative Afro during Ashland Fourth Fridays.

As June unfolds, so does the spirit of freedom and community in downtown Ashland, Virginia. The NAACP Hanover Branch cordially invites all to join their annual Juneteenth Celebration, an occasion pulsating with history, culture, and unity. This commemoration marks the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States and serves as a reminder of resilience, progress, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

📅 When:

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 22nd, from 12 PM to 5 PM. Should the skies weep, fear not, for a rain date is set for the very next day - Sunday, June 23rd.

📍 Where:

Randolph-Macon College becomes the heart of the festivities. Nestled at 204 Henry Street in Ashland, Virginia, this picturesque setting sets the stage for an unforgettable experience.

🎵 Entertainment:

Let the rhythm move you as DJ Melvin Gates spins tunes that bridge generations. The Hanover Community Choir, under the baton of Tyler Spurlock, will uplift spirits with soul-stirring melodies. Witness the mesmerizing footwork of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity, Phi Phi Chapter, as they grace the stage with their dynamic stepping. From the harmonious strains of the B.S. Giles Singers to the infectious energy of Kimmel Patton's line dancing, the lineup promises something for every musical palate. Urban Exchange and Desiree Roots and Band will further captivate with their performances, ensuring a day brimming with musical delights.

🥤 Food and Beverage:

Satisfy your cravings with a culinary journey spanning diverse flavors. Indulge in delectable treats from Morr Donuts, Hawk’s, Los Regios, Nomad Deli, Sweet Temptations, and JFive. Wash it all down with refreshing sips from Shoe Crazy Wine, completing your gastronomic adventure.

🛍️ Shopping:

Embark on a treasure hunt among over 30 resource and sales vendors. Discover unique finds, support local artisans, and enrich your Juneteenth experience with meaningful mementos. Downtown Ashland Association will be there to support your journey with maps to downtown Ashland.

💰 Cost:

Entrance to this celebration of heritage and freedom? Absolutely free. The organizers extend an open invitation to all who wish to join in the festivities.

💚 Pro Tip:

Enhance your comfort and enjoyment by bringing along a lawn chair. With ample grassy spots scattered across Randolph-Macon College, you can relax, picnic, and revel in the live entertainment at your leisure.

Juneteenth in downtown Ashland beckons—a day to honor the past, celebrate the present, and envision a future of unity and equality. Come one, come all, and be part of this vibrant tapestry of history and community.

Downtown Ashland Association Director Named Deputy Secretary of Commerce & Trade

After six years of service, Maggie Beal Longest stepped down from her position as Executive Director at Downtown Ashland Association. The economist and community advocate accepted an appointment by Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin to be Deputy Secretary of Commerce & Trade.

In her resignation, Longest wrote, “It is with great pride that I step away from the Association. Together we have made significant progress, and I am confident the success will continue with the community’s commitment.”

Under Longest’s leadership, Downtown Ashland Association produced events that brought tens of thousands into downtown, maintained Mainstreet America accreditation,  enacted public design projects including the soon-to-be-launched Mid-Atlantic Railroad Park, and was recently awarded $175,000 for entrepreneurship programming. The skills and experience Longest gained during her time in Ashland are well-suited to her new responsibilities leading economic and community development statewide.

Longest left big shoes to fill. Downtown Ashland Association’s Board of Directors is now seeking a dynamic and organized Executive Director to drive impactful initiatives that enhance Ashland’s vibrancy and economic growth. The Association invites new applicants for the position of executive director. Visit ashlandvirginia.com/news for more information.