Rock Your Business at Ashland Fourth Fridays!

Get ready to turn up the volume this summer with Ashland Fourth Fridays! From May to September, Downtown Ashland comes alive every fourth Friday with shops open late, farm-to-table fresh fare, and free live concerts. It's a rockin' good time, and we want your business to be part of the show!

Why Hit the Sponsorship Stage?

Sponsoring Ashland Fourth Fridays amps up your brand's exposure. Each event draws thousands of music lovers and shoppers, providing your business with prime visibility. With an audience averaging 30,000 monthly visitors and special events like Ashland Train Day attracting over 20,000 fans annually, it's a perfect gig for your marketing strategy.

Encore-Worthy Benefits

• Rockstar Reach: Connect with our extensive and engaged audience.

• Prime Promotional Access: Get exclusive exposure at major events like Ashland Train Day.

• Monthly Business Newsletter: Keep in tune with updates from the Ashland Theatre, Randolph-Macon College, Hanover Chamber of Commerce, and more.
  

Sponsorship Levels

Platinum Sponsor - $1,000

• Social media shoutouts

• Business logo spotlight on our website

• Free promotional space at Ashland Train Day

• Tax receipt and framed sponsor certificate
  

Rock Star Sponsor - $5,000

Includes all Platinum Sponsor benefits, plus:

• Host business development workshops

• One month of free on-screen advertising at Ashland Theatre (a $225 value)

• A feature news article about your business, shared with our 30,000 followers via social media, email, and news media

• Professional photos taken by the Association for your use

• Radio promotion during The Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy
  

How to Plug In

We welcome both monetary and in-kind support. You can donate online using the links below, or contact us to make arrangements.

Experience the Magic of Ashland Fourth Fridays

Every fourth Friday, discover the exquisite works of jewelers, painters, and designers downtown. Dine on delectable farm-to-table delights at our charming eateries and delight in live performances by popular musicians at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion.

Discover, dine, and delight in the rich tapestry of talents that make our town truly special. Join us in making Ashland Fourth Fridays an unforgettable community experience, and let your business shine in the spotlight!

ROCK AN ASHLAND FOURTH FRIDAYS SPONSORSHIP

Job Description: Executive Director, Downtown Ashland Association

We seek a dynamic and organized Executive Director to oversee our Small Business and Community Association. As a key team member, you will drive impactful initiatives that enhance our community's vibrancy and economic growth.

Responsibilities:

Non-Profit Administration:

• Partner with the Board and volunteers on the development and execution of initiatives that support tourism, entrepreneurship, revitalization and community engagement.

• Understand, develop strategy, and take action to ensure the Association complies with town, county and national commitments.

• Maintain budget and provide direction to vendors and contractors in pursuit of organizational goals and objectives.

Fundraising:

• Lead fundraising efforts for operating, event and program budgets.

• Understand and execute requirements of grants awarded.

• Capture and communicate wins generated through operating, event and program budgets.
  

Marketing and Communication:

• Develop and execute strategy for raising awareness of the Downtown Ashland Association and its mission.

• Building partnerships with local government, community organizations, and local business owners.

• Building community support and attracting volunteers.

• Increasing customer awareness and visitation to downtown Ashland.

• Growing sponsorships and participating in annual events.
  

Volunteer Management:

• Nurture relationships with residents, local churches, non-profits, and government organizations in support of the Association's mission.

• Recruit and lead volunteers at Association events and encourage continued volunteerism.

• Assist with recruiting and training of Board and committee members.
  

Budgeting and Financial Oversight:

• Prepare the annual operating budget for Board consideration.

• Ensure the use of funds in accordance with established budget, accreditation requirements, by-laws and association policies.

• Keep the Board informed of revenue and expenses.

• Ensure steps are taken to maximize return on dollars spent.

Community Projects:

• Oversee various community initiatives, fostering collaboration and positive impact.
  

Accreditation and Reporting:

• Maintain compliance with quarterly and monthly reporting requirements.

• Provide in-person updates to Town leadership.
  

Qualifications:

• Strong written communication skills.

• Experience managing complex projects.

• Familiarity with grant administration.

• Proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Suite, Smartsheet, Canva, and QuickBooks.

• Experience using CRM a plus

• Prior Non-profit management or experience running a small business

• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

If you are passionate about community development, have excellent organizational abilities, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity!

Ashland Fourth Fridays Return with Music, Art, and More!

Set your calendars for the sunny sensation we’ve all been waiting for - Ashland Fourth Fridays! Make downtown Ashland your destination on Friday, May 24th, from 5 PM to 8 PM, for an evening packed with fun, food, and fabulous entertainment to kick off the season in style.

Ashland Fourth Fridays are a recurring delight, lighting up the streets every fourth Friday from May to September. Imagine: a picturesque setting, streets streaming with tours and treats, and mesmerizing entertainment. From artisanal treasures to toe-tapping tunes, Ashland Fourth Fridays offers something for everyone.

Highlighting the evening will be the performances at the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion. Leading the charge is The Sweet Potatoes, dishing out jazz music inspired by the old Jazz tradition. Celebrated by Shockoe Sessions and Gallery Five, their performance promises to be a sonic delight. But wait, there’s more! The Ashland Dance Academy will kick off the festivities with performances ranging from pint-sized routines to elegant ballet numbers, setting the stage for an evening of rhythm and grace that’s not to be missed!

Feeling peckish? Fear not! Local vendors will be on hand to tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in farm-to-table delights in Ashland eateries, sample homemade ice cream from Farmview Creamery, or savor savory treats courtesy of the Ashland Order of the Eastern Star. With options aplenty, your culinary desires are sure to be satisfied!

But that’s not all! Prepare to explore the spookier side of Ashland with the Ashland Haunted History Tours, offering tales that are truly stranger than fiction. Plus, dive into the depths of mystery with RED VEIN Escape’s newest game, "Secrets of the Dead." And for the art lovers among us, immerse yourself in Sculptures by Peidot. The adventure awaits!

As you stroll the streets, take the time to peruse the local shops and attractions. From eclectic art at Refunkit to restored wonders at Caravati's Architectural Salvage, there’s a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. Ashland Tattoo Company is hosting Crimson Closet Alternative Boutique while Wagner Jewelers gives you a behind the scenes look at their custom craftsmanship from the open display of their worktables. The Shop at 112 - normally only open on Saturdays - extends their hours for Friday finds into the night. And don’t forget to stop by the Ashland Museum for a dose of local history and pick up a Secretariat Dedication Day t-shirt while you’re there!

So, what are you waiting for? Rally your friends and family, and join us for a Friday night to remember at Ashland Fourth Fridays on May 24th! Whether you’re a seasoned local or just passing through, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Become the headliner of our summer concert series when you sponsor Ashland Fourth Fridays.

Ashland Fourth Fridays Sponsorships

5 Things You Can Do to Celebrate Business Appreciation Month

How we appreciate downtown Ashland businesses, let us count the ways! This month and every month, downtown Ashland is home to cute and quirky attractions thanks to bustling business owners. Use this list of Downtown shops and our business directory to celebrate Business Appreciation Month to the fullest!

🚂 Take a tour around the tracks:
Ashland’s historic district is hallowed and haunted! Revel over the railroad with historic walking tours by the Ashland Museum and Ashland Haunted History Tours. Keep an eye out for the Mid-Atlantic Railroad Park set to break ground downtown in the summer of 2024.

🎨 Discover locally curated crafts:
Ashland artists display their talents across a multitude of mediums. Uncover their original works in decor, craft, agriculture, and of course - trains!

🍽️ Dine downtown:
Fresh local ingredients and inventive chefs define dining downtown. Whether you’re tucking into a pot pie, taking out, or cheering on your favorite team from the bar, Ashland offers eats to satisfy all tastebuds. 

🎶 Play from patios at Ashland Saturday Soundtracks:
Popular musicians play live from downtown’s patio areas. Listen in while you enjoy farm-to-table fare from The Caboose Market & Cafe, Origin Beer Lab, Ashland Meat Company, and the Iron Horse Restaurant. Stay tuned to Ashland Saturday Soundtracks at AshlandVirginia.com/Soundtracks

🛍️ Visit the stores open late at Ashland Fourth Fridays:
Ashland stays open late every fourth Friday from May to September. While popular bands like The Sweet Potatoes and The Grandsons play from Ashland Town Hall Pavillion, you can get to know businesses like RefunkIt, The Shop at 112, and Wagner Jewellers and cool down with Farmview Creamery’s farm-fresh ice cream.
Keep up to date with Ashland Fourth Fridays at AshlandFourthFridays.com

Ashland Mompreneurs are Taking Care of Business

This Mother’s Day, let's shine a spotlight on the powerhouse moms of downtown Ashland! From bustling restaurants serving up culinary delights to charming boutiques offering curated selections of books and toys, these entrepreneurial mamas are the heartbeat of our community. They're not just managing businesses; they're juggling the demands of motherhood. 

In downtown Ashland, Mother's Day shopping takes on a whole new meaning. Skip the generic gifts this year and opt for something truly special and locally made. From handmade jewelry that sparkles with love to artisanal treats crafted with care, you'll find a treasure trove of unique gifts by Ashland mompreneurs.

This Mother's Day, let's celebrate Ashland moms in style by showing them we see and appreciate all the hard work they put into making our town thrive. After all, when we patronize the establishments listed below, we're not just making purchases – we're recognizing and valuing the hard work and dedication they pour into their businesses and families every day.

🔒 Kitty Barnes of Ashland Haunted History Tours and RED VEIN Escape

🩰Colette Maranda of Ashland Dance Academy

🕯 Pat Ewald of Bell Book and Candle 

🧶Stacey Williamson of  Center of the Yarniverse 

🏡 Carolyn Hemphill of Group Home Management Support Services, LLC 

🎂 Suzanne Wolstenholme of Homemades by Suzanne

📸 Jessica Robertson of Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry

🎉Teresa Lopez de Ocanas of Los Regios Tienda Latina

📚 Meg McArdle-Kowar of McArdle & Associates Insurance Agency Inc.

🦷 Chriska Mustafa of Root Modern Dentistry

🎨 Wendy Doyle of Refunkit 

💇‍♀️ Susan Parsley of Upper Cuts 

🚂 Suzanne Hemingway  of Tiny Tims Trains and Toys 

🪑 Alicia Milton of Treasures on the Ni 

🧘‍♀️ Suz Morrison of YogaTown of Ashland,LLC 

🏠 Ederis Martinez-Cunion of Your Path Counseling Center