Train Day

Ashland Train Day Guide to Getting Here

Ashland Train Day is pulling into the station on Saturday, April 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM, and there are so many ways to arrive at this celebration of rails, roots, and community spirit. Whether you're traveling from across the region or coming in from a nearby neighborhood, we've laid out the best routes to get you to the Center of the Universe in style.

🚄 Travel by Train (Of Course!)

Why not travel the Ashland way—by train? Amtrak stops right in the heart of downtown Ashland, placing you smack in the middle of Train Day festivities. Kids ride for half price, and Amtrak sweetens the ride with kid-friendly activities like coloring pages, games, and videos. Grown-ups can sit back with a craft beer from Center of the Universe Brewing Company and toast to the good times ahead.

🌐 Can’t Make It in Person? Go Virtual!

Join the millions of train lovers who enjoy Ashland’s tracks through Virtual Railfan. During Train Day, the Ashland Branch Library becomes a real-life meeting place for the digital railfan community, complete with a special train display for visitors of all ages.

🅿️ Park and Shuttle Like a Pro

Avoid the traffic crawl and hop on one of our engineered-for-ease shuttles. Three Park & Ride locations will be open with continuous service to downtown Ashland starting at 11 AM (final shuttle departs at 3:45 PM):

🚧 Road Closures Ahead

Plan your route accordingly! Streets around Railroad Avenue, Center Street, and Hanover Avenue will be closed between 8 AM and 4 PM. England Street to Thompson Street will close from 10 AM to 4 PM.

🎫 Pro Tip

Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
$10.00

There’s a special ticket to ride waiting for someone! For a chance to score two rail tickets anywhere along the East Coast, when you enter Downtown Ashland Association’s Amtrak Raffle. Just be sure to hop on before April 25!

Ashland Train Day is more than a festival—it’s a full-steam-ahead community celebration filled with trains, tunes, and tons of smiles. Save this blog, share it with your fellow passengers, and make your plans now for a smooth ride to one of Virginia’s most beloved family events.

🚂 See you at the station!

Gearing Up for Fun with Train Day’s Touchable Trucks

Touch a Truck sponsored by RCI Builders at Ashland Train Day.

Ashland Train Day is about to rev up the excitement in the Center of the Universe—and this year’s Touch a Truck lineup is bringing high-octane thrills to the tracks! Thanks to the generous support of RCI Builders, Train Day’s most hands-on exhibit gives gearheads of all ages the chance to climb into the driver’s seat—literally.

Touch a Truck will be stationed from the corner of England Street and Maple Avenue all the way down to the railroad tracks, where families can check out a fleet of incredible vehicles, talk to the folks behind the wheel, and discover the big machines that help our community move full steam ahead.

RCI Builders at Ashland Tran Day, 2024

RCI Builders has been driving quality and craftsmanship since 1999. Locally owned and operated by founders Todd Rogers, Mike Chenault, and partner Patrick Ashley, RCI has grown into one of Central Virginia’s largest construction companies, with 30+ employees, over 18 communities, and an impressive build-on-your-lot program. Their support helps make this engine run—and helps keep Touch a Truck free and open to all.

So what’s under the hood at Touch a Truck this year? Let’s shift into gear:

🚒 Ashland Fire Department is bringing the heat with their iconic ladder truck, ready for close-up inspection.

🔧 Glen Allen Transmission will be on-site with high-performance tech and tools from their state-of-the-art auto repair facility.

🚛 Lawrence Equipment delivers powerful construction machines with all the modern bells and whistles today’s builders demand.

🌲 Wells Tree Service, the behind-the-scenes heroes of Ashland’s Light Up the Tracks, will showcase the truck that lights up the town—literally.

🚜 Gulf Seaboard is hauling in commercial construction power with the experience and strength that’s helped build schools, churches, banks, and more across the region since 1982.

🧹 JDog Junk Removal is proving that clean-up can come with a mission—donating or recycling up to 80% of what they haul, and making a difference while making space.

🚐 Commonwealth RV and Boats is parking a dream garage with their jaw-dropping collection of pre-owned RVs, yachts, and even aircraft. It’s more than a pit stop—it’s an adventure.

🪟 Pella Windows and Doors of Virginia will give visitors a peek behind the panes with displays that frame just how smooth and efficient modern windows can be.

🚑 Veterans of Foreign Wars will roll in with a historic M20 Greyhound Personnel Carrier and ambulance, connecting guests with military history through a powerful, hands-on experience.

Model A Ford cars on S Railroad Ave.

🚗 Model A Ford cars, though strictly look-but-don’t-touch, will add vintage vroom on S. Railroad Avenue—showcasing iconic style and classic charm from the golden age of motoring.

🚒 PlayRVA’s Firetruck Experience takes things to the next level—offering not just a peek inside a firetruck, but rides around the block! Cross the tracks to Thompson Street to catch a ride, check out onboard flat screens, and enjoy treats and more.

🚂 Just a hop down Cox Lane beside the Hanover Arts and Activities Center, families can hop aboard Blue Ridge Live Steamers and Titan Trains to explore and ride a steam engine, a diesel engine, and two rail cars. It's the ultimate connection between trains, trucks, and tracks.

Ashland Train Day is the place where little hands meet big wheels, where dreams shift into drive, and where the Center of the Universe becomes the center of excitement. Thanks to our community partners and the generous support of RCI Builders, Touch a Truck is ready to roll.

So bring the whole crew down to Ashland on Saturday, April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM—it’s full throttle fun for the whole family!

Ashland Train Day's Inspiring Crew

Every great adventure needs a solid crew, and Ashland Train Day is no exception. The 21st railroad extravaganza is fueled by the incredible support of our generous sponsors! 💛 These businesses, organizations, and community leaders keep the tracks clear, the whistles blowing, and the smiles wide—from Touch-a-Truck thrills to the sweetest kettle corn crunch. On Saturday, April 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM, you'll find them all along the tracks of historic downtown Ashland, bringing family-friendly fun, delicious food, and unforgettable experiences to the Center of the Universe.

Hop aboard as we celebrate the sponsors who make Ashland Train Day a first-class ride! 🚆✨ Whether you're chugging through the Kid’s Zone, grooving at the Pavilion, or scoping out model trains, be sure to stop by their booths, give them a wave, and say thank you for supporting one of Ashland’s most beloved traditions.

🚉 Signature Sponsors

Virtual Railfan
 They’ve brought Ashland's tracks to train lovers around the world—now they’re pulling into the station for Ashland Train Day! Catch them in person at the Ashland Branch Library with a special train display. 🌎📸🚂

Amtrak
 Next stop: Ashland Train Day! 🚆✨ Amtrak is helping visitors arrive in style and setting up trackside fun on Robinson Street—including a chance to explore their East Coast routes and connect with Center of the Universe Brewing Co. 🍻🌊

CSX
 With nearly two centuries of railway heritage, CSX is more than just a train line—it’s part of Ashland's story. 🚂 Stop by their booth on Robinson Street to meet the folks who keep the rails rolling daily through the Center of the Universe. 💼📜

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun & Experiences

Macaroni Kid
 All aboard for family fun! 💌 Macaroni Kid brings the heartbeat of the community straight to your inbox. Visit their booth on Robinson Street to discover all the kid-friendly happenings in your own backyard. 🏡🎈

New Community Church
 The Kid’s Zone is bursting with bounce houses, obstacle courses, games, and joy—thanks to New Community Church! Find the fun on the lawn near Ashland Town Hall. 🎨🧁🎉

Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys
 Model magic meets Train Day thrills! Stop by Tiny Tim’s on England Street and hop on the Scavenger Hunt for snapshots, surprises, and classic toy charm. 🧸📷🚆

RCI Builders
 Touch a Truck fans, this one's for you! 🛻🔧 RCI Builders is helping kids (and kids-at-heart) climb aboard big rigs, vintage rides, and emergency vehicles near the Secretariat Racing into History monument. 🏁👷

PlayRVA Fire Truck Rentals
 Sound the sirens—PlayRVA is bringing the Firetruck Experience to Thompson Street! 🚒💨 Hop aboard for interactive fun, cool tech, and a unique ride through town.

Center Street Sound Co.
 They’re keeping the tunes chugging along all day! 🎧🎶 Join the Party in the Pavilion near Ashland Town Hall for music, announcements, and good vibes courtesy of Center Street Sound Company. 🪩📢

Free Jambalaya
 Live music is rolling into Ashland courtesy of Free Jambalaya! 🎤🎶 Catch the beat outside the Hanover Arts & Activities Center, where the Ashland Song Contest meets DJ jams and live performances starting at noon.

Ashland Dance Academy
 All aboard the Choo Choo Boogie! 💃👟 Keep your eyes peeled for pop-up performances from Ashland Dance Academy at the Town Hall Pavilion, Henry Clay Inn, Library, and Arts Center.

Hanover Concert Band
 Kick off Ashland Train Day with some brassy flair! 🎺🎼 Join the Hanover Concert Band at 11 AM on the Hanover Arts and Activities Center lawn for an opening performance that’s music to your ears.

🍽️ Food & Beverage Sponsors

Wawa
 Fueling the day the Wawa way! 🚉☕ Wawa keeps Train Day on track by nourishing our volunteers and first responders. Don’t miss their booth on Robinson Street—rumor has it Wally Goose is flapping by! 🦢🥤

Jersey Mike’s Subs
 Fresh-sliced subs + community support = a perfect pairing. 🥪❤️ Jersey Mike’s is feeding the folks behind the scenes and welcoming everyone to their Ashland location at 708 England Street.

Homemades by Suzanne
 Lunchtime just got legendary. 🧺🌿 With over 40 years of catering excellence, Homemades by Suzanne is serving up Train Day eats with sandwiches, salads, and charm.

Monique’s Crêpes
 Catch Monique in action on S Center Street! 🥞✨ Her hand-crafted crêpes are a treat to watch—and even better to eat.

Strawberry Street Events
 Located in the Ashland Downtown Municipal Parking Lot, Strawberry Street Events is your station stop for burgers, chicken tenders, pulled pork, and more! 🍔🍗🚦

sweetFrog 
Hop on over to sweetFrog during Ashland Train Day for a swirl of celebration! 🐸🍦 Located at 210 England Street, they’re serving up customizable frozen yogurt creations with toppings galore. A treat this cool is worth a stop on your Train Day route! 🚆✨

Auntie Alice’s Kettle Corn
 It’s a snack-tacular Train Day thanks to Auntie Alice’s! 🍿🎪 Visit the Downtown Municipal Parking Lot for flavored popcorn, cotton candy, pretzels, and more.

Hungry Hungry Arrow
 Ride down S Railroad Avenue for handmade frybread, Indian tacos, and desserts from Hungry Hungry Arrow Catering. 🔥🌮🍰 It’s flavor you won’t forget!

💼 Local Business & Community Sponsors

Root Modern Dentistry
 Stop by Root Modern Dentistry’s booth on Thompson Street and get smiling! 😁🦷 They believe wellness starts with a healthy grin.

Pella Windows & Doors of VA
 Looking to elevate your space? 🪟 Swing by Pella’s booth on Robinson Street and let the daylight in! ✨🔨

CareNow Urgent Care
 Located outside the Dominion Energy Innovation Center, CareNow is your go-to for Train Day wellness support and thoughtful giveaways. 🩹🏥💙

Hanover Manor
 Say hello to Hanover Manor on the Town Hall Lawn. 🌳🏡 This close-knit senior community celebrates Ashland’s charm—one neighbor at a time.

Ashland Friends of the Library
 Inside and outside the Ashland Branch Library, they’re bringing the stories to life! 📚🚂 Enjoy wooden trains, a book sale, and live tales from Matthew Dodd near the Center of the Universe globe.

Your Path Counseling Center
 Find crafts and care with Your Path Counseling Center in the Kid’s Zone. 🎨💬 Supporting minds, hearts, and families on their journey.

Hanover Academy
 Education tailored for every child. 🎓📘 Visit Hanover Academy in the Ashland Town Hall parking lot and learn about their nurturing, student-focused approach.

Healing Circle Counseling
 At their Robinson Street booth, Healing Circle Counseling offers heart-centered care with award-winning insight. 💛🌀

The SPAN Center
 Bringing connection, care, and services to older adults and caregivers, The Span Center is located at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center. 🌈🕊️

Ashland Posh Potties
 Located outside the historic Henry Clay Inn, these are not your average port-a-potties! 🚽✨ Ashland Posh Potties keeps your Train Day experience classy and comfortable.

Wells Fargo Advisors 
Planning your financial future takes the right team—and Wells Fargo Advisors is here to help you stay on track. 🚉💼 Visit their booth outside 110 Thompson Street during Ashland Train Day to learn more about smart investing, retirement goals, and building your path forward. 📊🛤️

Ashland Train Day wouldn’t leave the station without the energy, generosity, and all-out steam of these amazing sponsors. From local heroes fueling our volunteers to neighbors bringing the bounce (literally!), each one helps create the magic that makes this community celebration so special. 🚦❤️

So mark your calendars, shine your conductor hat, and join us on Saturday, April 26, from 11 AM to 4 PM in historic downtown Ashland. Stop by, show your appreciation, and maybe even discover a new favorite local business. Because in Ashland, every track leads back to community. 🚂🌟

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.

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