Announcing the 1949 Film Series at the Ashland Theatre

The Ashland Theatre is thrilled to announce a monthly series of $5 films from 1949 as a continuation of the 75th Anniversary celebrations.

The Ashland Theatre celebrated 75 years on August 10, 2023, kicking off a year-long film series of classic films from 1948 and all tickets were just 75¢. Over the course of the year, nearly 3,000 patrons came out to catch these films on the silver screen.  Highlights included Alfred Hitchcock’s Rope, the beloved musical Easter Parade, and the celebration kick-off showing of various Looney Tunes cartoon shorts.

The final film of the 1948 series, The Pirate, stars Judy Garland and Gene Kelly plays August 12 at 7PM.

“The response to the 1948 series was better than we could have imagined.  It became clear that these films were fulfilling an unspoken need of the community.” said General Manager Courtney F. Caldwell.  “There was no question that we should continue the series, and we wanted to keep the ticket price lower than our regular films in the spirit of celebration.”  All tickets for the 1949 series are $5.

All films will be shown at 7PM, and tickets for the full series are on sale now.

• Monday, September 16: All the King’s Men, Academy Award Best Picture 1949

• Monday, October 21: Dumbo, the Disney classic film, originally released in 1941, was re-released in 1949

• Monday, November 18: I was a Male War Bride, starring Cary Grant

• Monday, December 16: Little Women, starring Elizabeth Taylor and Janet Leigh

• Monday, January 13, 2025: Adam’s Rib, starring Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy

• Monday, February 10, 2025: They Live by Night, starring Cathy O’Donnell and Farley Granger

• Monday, March 10, 2025: Under Capricorn, directed by Alfred Hitchcock

• Monday, April 14, 2025: The Heiress, starring Olivia de Havilland and Montgomery Clift

• Monday, May 12, 2025: I Shot Jesse James, starring Preston Foster and John Ireland

• Monday, June 16, 2025: The Small Back Room, starring David Farrar and Kathleen Byron

• Monday, July 14, 2025: The Third Man, starring Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, and Orson Welles

• Monday, August 11, 2025: Jour de fête, starring Jacques Tati and Paul Frankeur

For more information, please visit ashlandtheatre.org.

Ashland Theatre

Featuring first run and classic films and live music, the historic Ashland Theatre re-opened in 2018 following a two-year renovation. Unique art deco details paired with state of the art technology, brand new plush seating, expanded concession stands, full ABC license and a VIP lounge with box seats to accommodate up to 300 patrons, Ashland Theatre is downtown Ashland’s premiere venue for entertainment.

205 England St 
Ashland, VA 23005
(804) 401-7007
ashlandtheatre.org

The historic Ashland Theatre, built in 1948, is an art deco-style, 260-seat entertainment venue.
The Ashland Theatre Foundation’s mission is to reinvent the classic American movie house
experience through exceptional film, live performances, and live music. As a non-profit
organization, we will deliver a deeper level of engagement through speakers, panels,
talkbacks, and events that entertain, educate, inspire, and are welcoming to all.

August Ashland Fourth Fridays Guide

Looking for the perfect way to start your weekend? Look no further than Ashland Fourth Fridays! On August 23, from 5 to 8 PM, downtown Ashland transforms into a bustling hub of free entertainment, shopping, and community fun. Get ready to dive into the weekend with excitement and joy, as we've got an array of activities lined up that will make your Friday evening one to remember.

Shop 'Til You Drop at Ashland's Unique Stores

Why not kick off your weekend with some late-night shopping? The Ashland Museum is your first stop, offering fascinating exhibitions and Secretariat-themed merchandise that captures the town’s rich history. If you're looking for local art and crafts, head over to RefunkIt for unique home, office, and wardrobe items, plus cool gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Celebrating a decade of joy, make sure you gallop to Tiny Tims Trains and Toys for state-of-the-art model trains, must-have toys for all ages, and Breyer Horse Painting!

Don’t miss The Shop at 112, open exclusively for Fourth Fridays, where you can find curated home decor, paint selections, mixers, and Ashland-themed merchandise. RichmondReallySews sells handmade crafts inside 110 Thompson as a fundraiser for their upcoming Frocktails Fashion Show, while Paint Me a Perfect World offers unique jewelry and oddities outside RED VEIN Escape. At Ashland Tattoo Company, discover a variety of items for your home and wardrobe from various vendors. And the award-winning Free to Read booth outside the Ashland Branch Library is back, offering free books suitable for youth and young adult readers – take as many as you can carry!

Engaging Entertainment to Light Up Your Friday Night

The evening kicks off with the highly anticipated announcement of the Ashland Song Contest winner. The lucky winner will not only perform their Ashland-themed song live at September’s Ashland Fourth Fridays but also grace the Light Up the Tracks Celebration and be available for streaming on major music platforms. Don't miss this chance to witness local talent shine!

At the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion, enjoy a double feature: the Ashland Dance Academy will showcase their newest dance routines, followed by a free Nashville-style concert by Kari Smith of Rhythm Ranch. For those seeking a bit of adventure, RED VEIN Escape offers immersive escape room experiences that are sure to thrill.

For a touch of celebrity glamour, 110 Thompson hosts a special guest for photo ops – past guests have included favorites like Princess Belle, Bluey, and Queen Elsa. Plus, they’ll be handing out free treats like popcorn and cotton candy. And for a dash of local lore, join the Ashland Haunted History Tours as they celebrate five years of spine-chilling stories with tours around town.

Savor the Flavors of Ashland

Ashland’s farm-to-fork cuisine is staying open late to satisfy your cravings. Indulge in Farmview Creamery’s delicious soft serve at Ashland Town Hall, and grab a perfect cup of coffee or tea from Classic Coffee and Tea at 110 Thompson. Bravo Bake Company sets up their perfect pastries outside of Changing Reins - just in front of outdoor dining and picnic areas along Railroad Avenue.

Join Us for a Fantastic Fourth Friday!

Make this Friday a night to remember by joining us at Ashland Fourth Fridays on August 23. With a fantastic lineup of free entertainment, unique shopping experiences, and delicious food, it’s the perfect way to start your weekend on a high note. See you there, and let's kick off the weekend with a bang!

Everything Ashland Half Marathon & 5K

Looking for the perfect escape to small-town Virginia? Look no further than the Ashland Half Marathon & 5K! Nestled in the charming town of Ashland, known fondly as "The Center of the Universe," this event offers the perfect blend of historic beauty, vibrant community, and exhilarating racing.

Experience the Race

Whether you’re lacing up for the half marathon or the 5K, each course takes you on a scenic journey through Ashland’s picturesque streets, past historic homes, and even alongside a passing train. It’s a race where every step brings you closer to the heart of this colorful town.

• Hydration and Nutrition
  With bottle refill stations featuring Diamond Springs water and sports drinks at miles 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12, plus energy gels, you'll stay fueled and hydrated throughout the race. Remember, the Ashland Half Marathon is a cupless event, so bring your own hydration system!

• Comfort and Saftey
  Port-o-johns are conveniently located at the Start/Finish area and near water stops, ensuring comfort. Plus, top-notch medical support will be on hand to keep everyone safe.

• Post-Race Celebration
  After crossing the finish line, enjoy a well-deserved celebration with pre-packaged food and drinks.

Schedule of Events

• Friday, August 23

  • 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.: Packet pick-up at the Richmond Road Runners Club Office (2219 Tomlynn St, Richmond, VA 23230

• Saturday, August 24

  • 5:45 – 6:30 a.m. Packet pick-up at the Start/Finish area (corner of North Center Street and Henry Clay Road)  

  • 6:30 a.m.: Ashland Half Marathon begins  

  • 7:05 a.m.: Ashland 5K begins  

  • 10:00 a.m.: Courses close

    Don’t forget! The half marathon course will reopen as the last participant passes each checkpoint.
    

Stick Around for the Fun!

After you’ve crossed the finish line, don’t rush off! Ashland has a host of activities to keep the good times rolling:

• Ashland Farmers Market
  Starting at 9 AM, the Ashland Farmers Market displays a selection of everything from fresh produce to local honey, explore the market while enjoying a concert by the Windbags. All products are grown, baked, or made within a 30-mile radius, offering a true taste of local flavor.

• Delicious Dining

  • At 9 AM - 12 PM Bravo Bakeshop gets a sweet start to the day popping up with their breakfast pastries at Caravatis Architectural Salvage.

  • Ashland's farm-to-fork restaurants open by 11 AM. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, sports bar fare, Mexican cuisine, or Italian dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

• Unique Shopping
  Browse downtown stores for one-of-a-kind finds, from home decor and art to crafts and train memorabilia.

• Arts and Entertainment
  Enjoy escape rooms, haunted history tours, museums, and even free live concerts. The Ashland Theatre and public art installations, including the Secretariat Racing Into History monument and America’s longest railroad mural, are must-sees.

So, lace up those running shoes and head to Ashland for a race experience like no other. The Ashland Half Marathon & 5K promises not just a run, but a day of fun and community spirit in the heart of small-town Virginia. All aboard for a race you won’t want to miss!

IL Forno Brings the Taste of Italy to Ashland

Ashland has a new culinary gem, and it's called IL Forno Bar & Grill. Officially opened on July 16, 2024 in Ashland Town Center, this restaurant is the creation of Giuseppe Giambanco, affectionately known as "G," and his wife, Nadia. Rooted in a rich family tradition and inspired by Giuseppe’s childhood memories of his father’s bustling kitchen, IL Forno promises a dining experience like no other.

Growing up, Giuseppe was immersed in the world of Italian cuisine, learning the ropes from his father, a renowned restaurateur since 1976. "My dad's kitchen was my playground," Giuseppe fondly recalls. "Those early lessons in traditional Italian cooking have shaped my approach to food today." Now, Giuseppe and Nadia bring these cherished recipes to life at IL Forno, blending tradition with modern flair to offer what they proudly describe as a "Taste of Italy & A World of Flavor."

But what inspired Giuseppe to open IL Forno in Ashland? "First and foremost, Ashland has an incredibly supportive community," Giuseppe explains. "The people here have a genuine appreciation for local businesses and a vibrant spirit of togetherness. This supportive atmosphere is essential for any new venture, especially a restaurant that thrives on repeat customers and word-of-mouth recommendations." He continues, "Moreover, Ashland's dining scene doesn't have anything quite like IL Forno. Our restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional and innovative culinary experiences, centered around authentic, brick oven gourmet pizzas, pastas, steak, and seafood, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients."

At IL Forno, every dish is crafted with care, ensuring that each bite is a testament to Giuseppe’s dedication to quality and flavor. The menu boasts a variety of mouth-watering options, including the Steak Bruschetta, Crab Portobello Shrimp, Shrimp & Lobster Linguini, The Goat Pizza, and the Surf & Turf Burger. These dishes are not only delicious but also embody the essence of Giuseppe's culinary journey.

For those looking to unwind, IL Forno offers fantastic Happy Hour specials from Tuesday to Friday, 3:00-6:00 PM, with $2.00 off all cocktails, wine, and beer. Additionally, there’s a generous 10% discount for Randolph Macon students and first responders. Giuseppe is especially excited about their loyalty program, designed to reward repeat customers for their patronage.

So, what makes IL Forno truly special? "We aren't your typical Italian restaurant," Giuseppe proudly states. "We offer a variety of different entrees that you can't get anywhere else close to Ashland! We have a beautiful, full, huge bar, and we make 90% of everything fresh in-house. There's nothing like our business in this town." This commitment to freshness and uniqueness sets IL Forno apart, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Looking ahead, Giuseppe and Nadia have big dreams for IL Forno. "We want IL Forno to be a staple in this community and support the town of Ashland," Giuseppe shares. "We envision our restaurant as a place where all the locals come in and make our restaurant their home. We are very family-oriented, and our home is your home!"

IL Forno Bar & Grill invites you to pull up a seat and become part of their family. Experience the flavors they’ve been perfecting since 1976 and savor the warm, welcoming atmosphere that Giuseppe and Nadia have lovingly created. Welcome to IL Forno—where every meal is a celebration of tradition, innovation, and community.

Kick Off Your Weekend at Ashland Fourth Fridays!

Ready to jazz up your Friday evening? Ashland's Fourth Fridays are back on Friday, July 26, and we’ve got a night packed with family-friendly fun, food, and fantastic music! Here’s the scoop on what’s happening around town:

Groovin' Tunes and Dance Moves
The Ham Biscuits are serving up a hearty helping of New Orleans-style jazz, soul, and blues at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. The concert is free, so bring your lawn chairs and your dancing shoes!

At 5 PM, the Ashland Dance Academy will dazzle us with their adorable dance numbers on the Town Hall Pavilion Stage. Stick around afterward for pictures with Bluey and free blue cotton candy! Inside 110 Thompson, glam up with free fairy hair extensions.

Delicious Bites and Cool Treats
Indulge your sweet tooth at the Farmview Creamery soft serve truck on the Town Hall Lawn. For those in need of a caffeine fix, Classic Coffee and Tea’s truck will be parked outside Ashland Dance Academy.

Art, Tattoos, and More!
Check out the original Ashland-inspired artwork sold by Immagine LLC outside of Ashland Meat Company. Feeling adventurous? Ashland Tattoo Company will have vendors set up outside with some cool gear. The award-winning Free to Read program is back outside the Ashland Branch Library giving away as many free books as you can carry.

Spooky Adventures
RED VEIN Escape is hosting vendors and games, adding an extra thrill to your evening. Plus, Ashland Haunted History Tours is celebrating five years of ghostly tales! Use the code BOODAY24 when booking online to get 20% off your tour through July 27.

Late-Night Local Flavor
Beloved Ashland spots stay open late and keep the good times rolling:

Calling All Songwriters!
Got a tune in your heart inspired by Ashland? Enter the Ashland Song Contest! The winner will perform at Ashland Fourth Fridays on August 23, win a recording session with Free Jambalaya, streaming on major platforms, a $100 Town of Ashland gift certificate, original cover art, and a spot at the Light Up the Tracks Celebration on November 23. The deadline is Sunday, August 18.

So come on down, bring the family, and let’s make this Friday one for the books. See you there, neighbors!