Virtual Railfan Brings Ashland Train Day to the World

Virtual Railfans wave from the Ashland Hanover Visitors Center

Attention all train lovers, near and far! The countdown to Ashland Train Day is officially on, and this year, the world is tuning in like never before. Virtual Railfan, the premier North American live train camera network, is the presenting sponsor of Ashland Train Day on April 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM, ensuring that railfans across the globe can experience the magic of the rails at the Center of the Universe. Whether you’re rolling into town in person or logging in from miles away, this is one celebration you won’t want to miss!

From Screen to Scene: Virtual Railfan Joins the Action

Matthew Dodd performs during Ashland Train Day at the Ashland Branch Library.

Virtual Railfan has long been a window to the world of trains, and Ashland’s picturesque downtown, with its bustling rail traffic, is one of its most popular views. With millions of monthly viewers, tens of thousands of newsletter subscribers, and a dedicated following on YouTube and social media, Virtual Railfan has put Ashland on the map as a must-see destination for train enthusiasts worldwide.

And this year,Virtual Railfan is stepping out of the digital realm and into the heart of the action! Stop by their booth at theAshland Branch Library to meet fellow railfans, while the Ashland Branch Library provides wooden model trains appropriate for tiny train tots, live storytelling and music by Matthew Dodd, your new favorite read from the Friends of the Library’s Children’s Book Sale. It’s the perfect stop for train lovers of all ages!

A Railfan’s Dream Destination

For some, Virtual Railfan is more than just a way to watch trains—it’s the reason they make the journey to Ashland itself. One devoted pair of railfans from Munich, Germany, travels to Ashland annually just for Train Day.

“Virtual Railfan is how we know about Ashland, Virginia. That’s why we revolve our whole trip to the United States around the Center of the Universe,” they shared. “The trains and the community in Ashland make us so happy to be here.”

And they’re not alone. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to Ashland to immerse themselves in a day full of train-themed fun, history, and community spirit. Whether you’re a lifelong rail enthusiast or just love the energy of a bustling trackside festival, Ashland Train Day delivers an unforgettable experience.

Mike Cyr,Virtual Railfan’s Co-Founder, captures the excitement best: “Ashland Train Day is a railfan’s dream! The trains, history, and community make it a must-visit event. Virtual Railfan has enjoyed attending the event and capturing the action over the years. We love connecting with fellow train lovers there, and we can’t wait to be back!”

Can’t Make It? Tune In!

Not able to catch the Amtrak train to Ashland Train Day? No problem! Thanks to Virtual Railfan, you can still join the fun from wherever you are. The event will be broadcast to Virtual Railfan’s 100,000+ Facebook followers, and through ScaleTrains’ channels, website, newsletter, and social media. Whether you're watching from across the country or halfway around the world, you can still be part of the excitement and witness the magic of  Ashland Train Day in real-time.

So mark your calendars, pack your bags (or log into your favorite streaming device), and get ready for a train-tastic adventure!  Ashland Train Day and Virtual Railfan are making sure that whether you ride the rails or watch from the screen, the spirit of the tracks reaches railfans everywhere.

Fourth Fridays Kicks off the Summer!

Ashland Dance Academy performing at Ashland Fourth Fridays in the Ashland Town Hall Pavillion

The beloved Ashland Fourth Fridays series returns in 2025, bringing live music, local art, and vibrant community spirit to the Center of the Universe. Held on the fourth Friday of each month from May through August, this event invites visitors to shop, dine, and dance under the stars while enjoying free concerts, artisan vendors, and farm-to-table cuisine in historic downtown Ashland.

Each month, Ashland Fourth Fridays will feature a diverse lineup of live performances at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion, highlighting some of Virginia’s most exciting musical acts in the Center of the Universe:

  • May 23, 2025 – The Generations Trio
    Kickstarting the summer with smooth jazz and timeless classics, The Generations Trio blends rich melodies and swinging grooves, performing favorites from icons like Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock alongside fresh takes on classic rock hits.

  • June 27, 2025 – Life Support
    With funky harmonies and an eclectic mix of instruments, Life Support reinvents acoustic rock with the cajón, electric ukulele, and acoustic bass, delivering an energetic and engaging sound.

  • July 25, 2025 – The Blue Guitar
    This dynamic group covers rock, jazz, R&B, and pop, combining instrumental arrangements with powerful vocals for an unforgettable performance.

  • August 22, 2025 – Vexine
    Closing out the summer with their signature "southern rock noir," Vexine’s powerhouse vocals and bold instrumentation will electrify the crowd. This final Fourth Friday will also announce the winner of the Ashland Song Contest, unveiling an original song inspired by the town itself.

Vend at Ashland Fourth Fridays

APPLICATION

Beyond the music, Ashland Fourth Fridays offer an immersive experience, including extended shopping hours at downtown boutiques, an artist marketplace, and delicious eats from local restaurants. The Ashland Dance Academy will once again energize the crowd with special performances, while thrill-seekers can enjoy interactive entertainment like escape games from RED VEIN Escape and eerie storytelling with Ashland Haunted History Tours.

Artists, artisans, and food vendors are encouraged to apply to be part of this celebration of creativity and community. Vendor spaces are carefully curated to highlight the region’s vast talent, ensuring a diverse and engaging experience for attendees. Interested vendors should apply exclusively through the Downtown Ashland Association.

Ashland Song Contest

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For those eager to leave their mark on Ashland’s musical legacy, the Ashland Song Contest is now accepting entries. Songwriters of all levels are invited to compose an original tune celebrating Ashland, with the winning piece earning a professional recording session, a live debut at the Light Up the Tracks Celebration, streaming on all major platforms, and a played on the K101.2 POP.

From handcrafted art to delicious cuisine, from jazz melodies to rock anthems, Ashland Fourth Fridays are the perfect way to experience the town’s creative and cultural energy. Whether discovering a new favorite band, savoring a gourmet dish, or finding the perfect locally made treasure, visitors are sure to be enchanted by this unique summer event.

For more information, including vendor applications and song contest submissions, visit AshlandFourthFridays.com and follow the Downtown Ashland Association on social media. Don’t miss the chance to discover, dine, and delight at Ashland Fourth Fridays—where music, art, and community shine under the summer sky.

EnterTRAINment at Ashland Train Day

Ashland Train Day by Finger Print Photo Studio

Get ready to blow the whistle on boredom because Ashland Train Day is pulling into the station on Saturday, April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM in historic downtown Ashland! Whether you're a dedicated railfan or just looking for a first-class way to spend the day, this locomotive-loving festival is packed with entertainment, shopping, and dining that will keep your spirits chugging along.

Dining That’s on the Right Track

Ashland Train Day-ers dining at Homemades by Suzanne

Ashland is always a food lover’s paradise, but Train Day puts the local dining scene in the express lane. Within the event area, you can dine at hometown favorites like The Caboose Market & Cafe, Origin Beer Lab, Iron Horse Restaurant, Homemades by Suzanne, Classic Coffee, Tea and Books, Cafe 54 Breakfast and Lunch, The Henry Clay Inn, Sugar Fix Bakery, Sweet Frog, Ashland Pot Pie Company, and Ash & Olive. Craving something on the go? The Ashland Train Day Food Court is brimming with flavors from around the world, featuring Monique’s Crepes, Strawberry Street Events, Hungry Hungry Arrow, Auntie Alice’s Kettle Corn, and Good Vices Ices. Plus, volunteers will enjoy special treats as a thank-you for keeping the event running on time!

Make a pit stop at Ashland Meat Company @ Cross Brothers for a selection of farm-to-fork deli platters, gourmet sandwiches, and local libations. If you need fuel for your day, drink up great beverages and books at Classic Coffee, Tea and Books. Whether you sit down for a meal at The Caboose Market & Cafe or grab a treat from Homemades by Suzanne, there's no shortage of delicious dining to fuel your festival fun.

Off the Rails Shopping

Shop ‘til you drop with over 100 vendors selling unique finds, from jewelry and art to baked goods and handcrafted toys. Bravo Bakeshop, the 2024 Center Street Pitch Competition winner, will be serving up award-winning treats to satiate your sweet tooth while your friendly neighborhood dentists at Root Modern Dentistry keep them clean.

Make a stop at Amtrak Virginia’s booth to play games and enter a raffle for a free trip along the East Coast! Swing by Wawa’s tent for snacks and a selfie with Wally Goose, or visit BeMobile for tech-savvy fun and games. Get hands-on with a truckload of fun at Pella Windows & Doors’ Touch a Truck experience, meet the exterior experts at Smallwood Renovations, and learn what makes Hanover Academy such a special place for young learners. Get crafty with Macaroni Kid’s hands-on fun for families.

Need a moment to relax before you continue chugging along? The Healing Circle will be offering insights into their award-winning outpatient therapy, and Friends of the Library will have their annual children’s book sale outside the Ashland Branch Library.

Tiny Tim’s Toys & Trains at Ashland Train Day

And if you think the fun stops here, think again—some of Ashland’s best shopping and experiences are just steps away! Fin & Feather is the perfect place to stock up on pet supplies, from gourmet treats to small animals and fish, while Tiny Tim’s Toys & Trains will spark joy for every age with model trains, science kits, and games for the whole family. If you're searching for something one-of-a-kind, Changing Reins specializes in gently used equestrian gear and vintage home décor, while The Shop at 112 is a treasure trove of carefully curated antiques and collectibles. Yarn lovers will find inspiration at Center of the Yarniverse, where shelves are stocked with vibrant fibers and tools for knitting and crocheting. Meanwhile, Ashland Feed Store is bringing the farm to town with a petting zoo, alongside all the gardening and animal care essentials you could need.

For entertainment, don’t miss the train-themed movies and classic showings at Ashland Theatre, or strike a pose with dazzling light displays from Alpha-Lit at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center and Sign Gypsies at Caravati’s Architectural Salvage, a must-visit destination for historic home restoration and vintage finds. If you’re looking to add a little sparkle, Wagner Jewelers specializes in handcrafted, custom-designed pieces, including reimagined heirloom jewelry. And for those who love unique, artistic gifts, Refunkit is filled with funky, handcrafted creations from talented artists across Virginia and beyond.

Whether you're shopping, snacking, or sightseeing, this adventure through historic downtown Ashland promises something for everyone—so grab your ticket and hop aboard!

Entertainment That Keeps the Wheels Turning

This year’s lineup is a non-stop express of excitement! Head to the Hanover Arts and Activities Center lawn for a live performance by the Hanover Concert Band, and groove to your favorite hits with Center Street Sound Co at the pavilion. Over with Free Jambalaya at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, enjoy live music that will keep your feet moving all day long!

For train lovers of all ages, check out the model train displays featuring vintage locomotives, LEGO layouts, and even a classic red caboose. Then, step inside the Ashland Museum to uncover the town’s rich railroading history, and don’t miss the fully restored 1926 C&O red caboose for a journey back in time to the golden age of the railroad! Over at the Ashland Branch Library, enjoy Matthew Dodd’s storytelling and singing, plus a wooden train play area for little conductors in training.

Feeling competitive? Take part in the Scavenger Hunt sponsored by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys—snap pictures at key stops to win a first-class prize! You might even spot Ashland Dance Academy performing Choo Choo Boogie through out town. For family fun, the Kid Zone sponsored by New Community Church offers bouncy houses, an obstacle course, games, and face painting. Hop aboard the Kiddie Train sponsored by Your Path Counseling Center, or get up close and personal with big rigs at RCI Builders’ Touch a Truck experience.

If you’re feeing nice, visit Santa and Mrs. Claus at Ashland Town Hall. If you’re feeling naughty, test your wits at RED VEIN Escape, where you and your team must crack codes and solve puzzles to break free. Then, step into the supernatural with the Ashland Haunted History Tours—guided ghost walks through town featuring chilling tales and eerie encounters.

All aboard for even more fun at the Ashland-Hanover Visitors Center, located in the historic Ashland Train Station, where you can learn about all the must-see destinations, dining, and lodging in the area. And don’t miss the Blue Ridge Live Steamers & Titan Trains, where kids and adults alike can ride on miniature locomotives outside the Hanover Arts and Activities Center!

While you wait for shuttles at The Ashland Hanover Shopping Center and Ashland Junction Shopping Center, make sure you check out all the fun to be found in those brick-and-mortars—like soul food at Around The Table, freshly pressed tortillas at La Catrina Tortilleria, the luxurious amenities at XtraSuite Salon Studios, and the stunning displays at the RF&P Model Railroad Club.

Virtual Railfan: Bringing Train Day to the World

Can’t make it in person? Don’t worry, Virtual Railfan has you covered! Stop by the Ashland Branch Library to meet the team behind the famous rail livestream, or join thousands of viewers from around the world by watching Ashland’s bustling tracks online.

All Aboard for a Day to Remember!

With so much to see, taste, and explore, Ashland Train Day is the ultimate destination for families, railfans, and festival-goers alike. So grab your conductor’s hat, bring your appetite, and prepare for a day of full-steam-ahead fun in the Center of the Universe!

For more details and updates, visit AshlandTrainDay.com

Meet the Pitch Contestants Making Waves

Kari Smith of Rhythm Ranch Homestead in the Center Street Pitch Competition

Entrepreneurs, prepare to enter the tank! The Center Street Pitch Competition on April 10 at the Ashland Theatre is making a splash with a lineup of fearless business owners ready to dive headfirst into the world of opportunity. These innovators, spread across three categories, are sharpening their pitches and hoping to hook the judges with their brilliant ideas. Let’s meet the contestants who are swimming upstream to claim victory and $35K in cash and prizes!

📍 Center of the Universe Finalists

Ash & Olive is where quality meets community. Located in historic downtown Ashland, their flame-to-table artisanal dishes, curated wine and cocktail program, and welcoming space make locals and visitors feel at home in the Center of the Universe. Ash & Olive is hoping to reel in the judges with a pitch that’s as smooth as their gelato.

Free Jambalaya Studios is mixing art and technology to create an immersive entertainment experience that’s as flavorful as its namesake dish. Their innovative approach to recording music, podcasts, and even theatrical productions turn heads, and their team is banking on their unique blend of culture and creativity to net them the win.

Monique’s Crepes is flipping expectations on what it means to serve authentic, mouthwatering crepes. “My perseverance and dedication to my craft is leading me to my 13 year anniversary of Monique's Crepes in June,” said owner Monique Sage Pecora. “In order to survive as a small business owner, I have had to make many choices with regard to prioritizing business needs. Sometimes I've needed to put some repairs or improvements off for longer than I would've liked in order to keep rolling so to speak!” With a passion for crafting sweet and savory delights, Monique’s Crepes is looking to expand its operations and prove that there’s always room for more deliciousness in the market. Will the judges bite?

🦈 Hanover and Beyond Finalists

Revival Spa is bringing relaxation and rejuvenation to the forefront with its holistic approach to wellness. From therapeutic massages to revitalizing facials, this business is dedicated to helping clients feel their best. “I started six months ago with minimal funding, and without much up-front capital, it's a slow moving, patience-testing process of reinvesting and slowly building,” said owner Lindsey Haberman. “Over time, I am thoroughly committed to developing a unique wellness space for the area. Here's a big thank you to all of the clients making this possible!” With a well-crafted business model and an eye for expansion, Revival Spa is ready to turn the competition into its personal oasis.

Haven House Florals is blossoming into a powerhouse in the floral industry, crafting stunning arrangements that capture the beauty of nature. “I hope to achieve the ability to take our shop on the road and spread kindness, which is our motto at Haven House,” explained owner Dana Kelly. “Our pitch is based on our goal to outfit a truck and trailer to become our mobile flower and plant shop. That would give us the ability to meet and interact with more people in the community and bring our beautiful blooms and plants to them!” With an emphasis on locally sourced flowers and artistic design, this business is hoping its pitch will be as vibrant and memorable as its bouquets.

T.Lo Noticias e Informacion is dedicated to keeping the community informed with timely and accurate news. This Spanish-language media outlet is filling an essential gap in the market, ensuring that important stories reach the right audience. With a strong mission and a growing audience, they’re looking to make headlines in this competition.

🌱 Agriculture & Forestry Finalists

Davis Natives is rooted in the mission of preserving and cultivating native plants. Their work supports biodiversity and sustainability, making them a key player in environmental conservation. “We intend to inspire our neighbors to understand the importance of planting native species and see themselves as ecological changemakers,” said owners Lauren and Brad Davis. “We would like for people to walk away knowing that Davis Natives is their trusted partner in making the shift to native plantings.” With a strong foundation and a growing demand for their offerings, they’re ready to branch out into new opportunities.

Breemar Flower Farm is growing something truly special, bringing fresh-cut flowers to market with a passion for sustainable farming. “I believe in the power of local businesses to bring beauty, sustainability, and connection into our community,” said owner Nicole Dillon. “As a flower farmer and founder of Breemar Flower Farm, I see first-hand how flowers can brighten people’s lives—not just as a luxury, but as a meaningful part of how we mark life’s moments. Flowers are a part of life's biggest moments and it is such an honor to be a part of creating lasting memories in our community.” They’re hoping their pitch will be as bright and bountiful as their blooms.

Rhythm Ranch Homestead is harmonizing agriculture with sustainability, creating a farm that blends tradition with innovation. Their commitment to ethical farming and community engagement sets them apart, and they’re hoping to hit the right note with the judges.

POWER UP Productions is planting seeds of success in story-driven video content that connects audiences to culture, community, and causes. “We applied to the Center Street Pitch Competition because it aligns perfectly with our mission for ‘Field and Fork: Farmer’s Market Journeys,’” said POWER UP Production’s Amy Garelick. “We’re celebrating and elevating the rich agricultural traditions and local food systems of Virginia. We saw this as an opportunity to bring our vision to a larger audience and connect with others who believe in the power of storytelling, sustainability, and community-rooted food experiences.” With a strong vision for the future, they’re determined to turn their pitch into a towering success.

These contestants are ready to put their best fin forward and make a splash in the Center Street Pitch Competition. With their eyes on the prize and their pitches finely tuned, who will swim to the top and secure the investment of a lifetime? Swim over to the Ashland Theatre on April 10 at 6 PM to catch the Center Street Pitch Competition - it’s about to get JAWS-dropping!

April Events in Downtown Ashland

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ASHLAND TRAIN DAY

The ultimate railroad celebration is back for its 21st year! Join us in historic downtown Ashland on Saturday, April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM for a day filled with:
✨ Touchable trucks
🛍 Shopping & dining
🕺 Live art
🚂 Kiddie trains
🚊 Model trains
🚆 And, of course, REAL trains rolling through the heart of the action!

Sponsored by Amtrak & CSX, this is a can't-miss event for train lovers of all ages! Who’s hopping on board? 🚉👇

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APRIL HAPPENINGS

🌸 April - Revival Spa Spring Specials

Spring into self-care! Enjoy 10% off an hour-long massage or indulge in a Botanical Facial with a full-body CBD treatment. 🌿 Booking is easy—just select "Spring Specials" at RevivalSpas.com.

🧶 April - Dogwood Fiber Trail

Get tangled up in fun at Center of the Yarniverse, part of the Dogwood Fiber Trail! 🌳 Discover a curated selection of yarns, fibers, tools, and exclusive patterns—plus, enjoy special giveaways! 🏆 Learn more.

📖 April Mondays - Mother Goose Storytime

It’s rhyme time! 🦢 Designed for ages 6 to 24 months and their caregivers, this nursery rhyme-filled program includes singing and reading. Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

📚 April Tuesdays - Ashland Branch Library

A double dose of fun! Bring your toddler at 10:30 AM for books & music, then stick around for preschool story time at 11:30 AM! 📖 🎶 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

🤠 April 1, 6:15 PM - Line Dancing

Kick up your boots with the Boot Scooters at Ashland Branch Library! No experience needed—just bring your two left feet! 👢 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

🎨 April 1-3 - Art Display & Sculpture Workshop with Jocelyn Russell

The sculptor behind "Secretariat Racing Into History" is hosting a three-day workshop at Hanover Arts & Activities Center. Follow her on Facebook for details.

⛏️ April 3 -17 - A Minecraft Movie

A new kind of block-buster is hitting the big screen! 🎥 Craft a great night out at Ashland Theatre. Learn more.

🍕 April 4 - Pizza Night at the Caboose

Pull up for pizza right along the railroad! Plan to dine early - pizza often sells out! Learn more.

🖼️ April 4 -5 - Ashland Artists Showcase and Marketplace

Join Ashland’s favorite artists this spring! This is your chance to see and purchase your next great piece for your home or business. Learn more.

🏃‍♂️ April 5, 9 AM - Hanover Airpark 5K

The race kicks off with a Mascot Dash at 8:50 AM, followed by an official "POP" to start the 5K! 🎉 Cheer from the Fan Zone or register here.

🎭 April 7, 7 PM - Hanover’s Got Talent Auditions

Think you've got what it takes? ⭐ Audition at Hanover Arts & Activities Center for a chance to perform at Ashland Theatre! Sign up.

🏛️ April 8, 6 PM - Historical Tax Credit Consultation

Preserving history just got easier! 🏡 Learn how historical tax credits can help with renovations at Ashland Town Hall.

🩸 April 9, 10 AM - Blood Drive

Be a lifesaver! ❤️ Donate blood at Hanover County Courthouse. Schedule an appointment.

🎭 April 10, 5 PM - Theater Night in Ashland

Dine out & support local theater! 🍽️ Participating restaurants will donate to Liberty Middle School’s production of Beauty and the Beast, Jr.! 🕰️ Learn more.

🎞️ April 12, 10 AM - Toddler Takeover

Little ones take over Ashland Theatre for a special one-hour screening with lights on and concessions available! 🍿 Learn more.

☕ April 12, 3 PM - Tea Party

Pinkies up! ☕ Enjoy a sweet & savory tea party at Homemades by Suzanne in historic downtown Ashland. Call (804) 798-8331 to reserve your seat!

🍷 April 13, 3 PM, Spring PMS Party

Paint, Massage, and Sips spell fun at XtraSuite Salon Studios! Sip seasonal wine while you learn to paint a Cherry Blossom Serenade, then kick back in a massage chair and admire your beautiful work. 🎨 Learn more.

🎬 April 14, 7 PM - The Heiress

Catch this classic 1949 film starring Olivia de Havilland & Montgomery Clift at Ashland Theatre—just $5 a ticket! 🎟️ Learn more.

📚 April 15, 7 PM - D. Randall Blythe: In Conversation

Author & musician D. Randall Blythe discusses his new book, Just Beyond the Light. 🎸📖 Presented with Fountain Bookstore at Ashland Theatre. Learn more.

📚 April 16, 7 PM -Alumni Book Club

Professor Emeritus Dr. Alphine Jefferson discusses Percival Everett’s award-winning novel, James. The novel is a retelling of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn from the perspective of the enslaved Jim. Register to attend.

🎭 April 16-19 - "Love of Labyrinths" (World Premiere!)

A hilarious fantasy adventure with dragons, elves, wizards, & rogues—plus a persnickety rulebook! 🎲 Don’t miss Randolph Macon College’s mellifluously musical new play! Learn more.

🎀 April 19, 11 AM - Berkleytown Heritage Park Ribbon Cutting Celebration

Join the Town of Ashland and Hanover County Black Heritage Society for special remarks, community performances, food, reminiscing, and a neighborly stroll through the trail. Enjoy parking at Ashland Elementary School.

🚀 April 19, 11 AM - More than Science

NASA Solar System Ambassador Kenneth Feldt explores the emotional impact of space travel and our place in the universe. 🌌 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

🎤 April 19, 7 PM - Hanover’s Got Talent SHOW

The top 3 acts take the stage at Ashland Theatre for a chance to shine! 🌟 Learn more.

🦋 April 23, 3:30 PM - Kid’s Butterfly Program

Flutter over to Ashland Branch Library for a butterfly talk & craft with Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. 🌿 Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.🎸

🎃 April 26, 7 PM - The Rocky Horror Picture Show with Shadow Cast

It’s halfway to Halloween! Get your tickets to the Rocky Horror Picture Show with a shadow cast and enjoy specialty cocktails, goodie bags, & movie madness at Ashland Theatre. Learn more.

🧠 April 28, 12 PM - Keeping Your Brain Active

Stay sharp! 🧩 This brain health presentation will help you keep your mind in top shape. Call 804-798-4072 or visit the Ashland Branch Library at 201 S. Railroad Ave. for details.

⚰️ April & Beyond - Manning Memorial Services CareCredit

Cover memorial costs with CareCredit, now available at Manning Memorial Services. Apply here.

CENTER STEET PITCH COMPETITION

The Center Street Pitch Competition is the friendliest version of "Shark Tank" in the Center of the Universe! Cheer on local innovators on April 10 from 6-8 PM in the historic Ashland Theatre and find out who is swims away with the $35K prize.

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ENTERPRISE EXPRESS

📅 April 7 – Ashland Community Leadership Academy
Ready to make a difference in Ashland? This six-week program, running Mondays through May 12, is designed to engage and empower community members who live, work, or volunteer in town. Spots are limited—apply today!

☕️ April 8 - Coffee and Connect
Start your day with caffeine-infused small business networking and collaboration at Dominion Energy Innovation Center. Rich roasts are generously provided by Hanover’s own Rivers Edge Coffee Co. Learn more.

💻 April 21 – Deadline for the Digital Skills, Literacy, and Device (DSLD) Program
This initiative supports programs that enhance digital skills, literacy, device access, and tech support in the community. Whether you're looking to launch or expand a program, apply now to make an impact!

RUNAWAY RAFFLES

🚆 Two Amtrak Tickets 🌎 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.Enter before April 25! 🚉💨

🎅 Santa Train Tickets 🚂
Enter for a chance to win 6 tickets to the December 2025 Ashland Santa Train sponsored by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys! Tickets include a round-trip excursion to 'Colonial Williamsburg' complete with entertainment and cocoa with Santa and his friends. Enter before October 2025. ❄️🎄

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GOOD NEIGHBORS

Free events like Ashland Train Day are only possible thanks to YOUR support. Help us continue to plan free family-friendly fun and build a vibrant future in Downtown Ashland when you make a tax-deductible donation.

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