April Events in Downtown Ashland


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? 🚉👇


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.


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. ❄️🎄


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.


Train Day Packs Big Volunteer Perks

Every year, Ashland Train Day’s locomotive celebration brings thousands of visitors from around the world to the Center of the Universe. But behind every whistle and wave, there’s a team of over 100 dedicated volunteers keeping things chugging along. Saturday, April 26, is your chance to hop on board!

Volunteering at Ashland Train Day isn’t just about lending a hand—it’s about hoping a board community spirt. Whether you’re handing out maps, supporting artists and entrepreneurs, or making sure every guest has a smooth ride through the festivities, your efforts help create the magic that makes Train Day unforgettable. Plus, volunteering with Downtown Ashland Association, a Main Street America-accredited nonprofit, means your hours count toward community service. You’ll even receive a digital, printable service sheet to turn in, complete with a signature from the friendly volunteer coordinator at headquarters.

And speaking of headquarters, there’s a first-class stop just for you! The Dominion Energy Innovation Center, normally home to entrepreneurs shaping a net-zero future (and the Downtown Ashland Association’s offices), transforms into Volunteer Headquarters for the day, thanks to the generous support of Wawa and Jersey Mike’s. Need a pick-me-up before your shift? Ashland’s Wawa, stationed at 100 N. Washington Hwy, will keep volunteers and first responders fueled with coffee, water, and breakfast treats. Swing by their booth on Robinson Street for snacks, smiles, and a high-five from Wally Goose himself. By lunchtime, Ashland’s own Jersey Mike’s (708 England Street) will be stacking Volunteer Headquarters with fresh subs to keep you rolling.

Of course, no great journey is complete without a few delicious detours! Volunteers can enjoy tokens for treats from some of Ashland’s finest eateries and food trucks. Whether you’re craving a homemade sandwich from the beloved Homemades by Suzanne, watching the artistry of Monique’s Crêpes as she crafts delicate French delights, or indulging in the legendary flavors of Strawberry Street Catering, there’s something for every palate. Auntie Alice’s Kettle Corn, Hungry Hungry Arrow’s frybread and Indian tacos, and more will keep the energy high as you make your way through the festival.

Beyond the food and fun, Train Day volunteers receive a special token of appreciation—a limited-edition Ashland Train Day shirt, designed by Geoff Stone and printed by Minuteman Press of Ashland. These coveted cotton tees are only available online, making volunteering your best ticket to scoring one of these exclusive designs.

Community groups are also getting on board in a big way! ARC of Hanover will be bringing their Thrift Store from Glen Allen to their booth on Robinson Street, advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. St. Ann’s Knights of Columbus will be working hard behind the scenes to keep Ashland spotless—ensuring our beloved festival is as clean as a freshly polished Amtrak train car. And New Community Church is stepping up in a big way, with over 60 volunteers keeping the Kid Zone on track with bounce houses, obstacle courses, face painting, games, and family-friendly fun in the Ashland Branch Library parking lot on 201 S Railroad Ave.

Supporting our first responders is more important than ever. While the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad recovers from the fire that displaced them in February, Ashland’s CareNow Urgent Care is stepping in to provide world-class First Aid support—and a bit of fun—at the Dominion Energy Innovation Center. Meanwhile, Ashland’s Police Department will be working tirelessly to keep Train Day safe and welcoming for all. Want to show your appreciation? You can support the Ashland Volunteer Rescue Squad by signing up for their meal train and helping provide a warm meal or comfort item during their time of need.

Ready to jump on board? Sign up today to be part of the action at AshlandTrainDay.com. Whether you’re handing out prizes, assisting visitors, or just bringing your best enthusiasm, there’s a role for everyone. And if you live or work along the event route, don’t forget to set out your County Waste trash and recycling bins a day early—it’s a simple way to show your community spirit and keep Ashland looking its best for over 20,000 attendees.

So, what do you say? Let’s keep Ashland Train Day running full steam ahead—one volunteer at a time!

Pitch Competition Finalists Announced

2024 winner Meadowgate Alpacas receiving their Center Street Pitch Competition prize.

The friendliest Shark Tank in the Center of the Universe is back for its 11th year! On April 10, 2025, the Dominion Energy Innovation Center and Downtown Ashland Association will once again throw open the doors of the historic Ashland Theatre for the Center Street Pitch Competition, where bold entrepreneurs will dive into the opportunity to reel in a share of $35,000 in cash and prizes.

“Innovation isn’t just about having a great idea—it’s about having the courage to bring it to life,” said Downtown Ashland Association Executive Director “Coach” Antonio Miller. “The Center Street Pitch Competition is about giving passionate entrepreneurs the chance to turn their visions into reality.”

Center Street Pitch Competition Maggie Beal Longest, Heather Lyne, Dr. Berina Yerkic-Husejnovic, Rachel Shupe, and Tammy Proffit

This year’s panel of seasoned judges brings a wealth of expertise and a shared passion for fostering innovation. Heather Lyne, an award-winning community and economic development leader, has spearheaded transformative projects in Virginia, Colorado, and beyond. A proponent of asset-based community development, she champions the philosophy of building on "what’s strong" rather than "what’s wrong." Dr. Berina Yerkic-Husejnovic, a distinguished professor at Randolph-Macon College and a seasoned industry expert, holds multiple degrees in engineering, business, and foreign languages, along with 35 patents and extensive leadership experience in corporate project management. They are joined by Maggie Beal Longest, Deputy Secretary of Commerce & Trade for the Virginia Office of the Governor; Rachel Shupe, Senior Relationship Manager and Intern Coordinator at Colonial Farm Credit; and Tammy Profitt, a dedicated small business advocate. Together, these accomplished professionals will evaluate each pitch and provide invaluable feedback to the finalists.

The competition spans three categories, each featuring a trio of ambitious business leaders ready to make waves:

Center of the Universe finalists Monique’s Crepes , Ash & Olive, and Free Jambalaya Studios

Center of the Universe: Local Talent, Global Ambitions

This category shines a light on the best and brightest of Ashland’s business community. Ash & Olive offers a flame-to-table dining experience that blends artisanal quality with small-town hospitality; Free Jambalaya Studios is a powerhouse of artistic innovation, producing music, theater, and multimedia content; and Monique’s Crepes delivers a taste of France from a mobile kitchen, bringing sweet and savory delights to public and private events alike.

Agriculture & Forestry: Planting the Seeds of Success

Rooted in innovation, this category highlights entrepreneurs cultivating change in agriculture and forestry. Finalists include Davis Natives, a company committed to preserving Virginia’s indigenous plant genetics to enhance ecosystem resilience; Breemar Flower Farm, a micro-farm specializing in sustainable, high-quality cut flowers; Rhythm Ranch Homestead an agritourism farm educating visitors in sustainable living, and Power Up Productions, a creative media company dedicated to telling the stories of Virginia’s farming and culinary communities.

Hanover and Beyond: Expanding the Horizon

With the potential to impact communities far and wide, these finalists are proving that big ideas know no boundaries. Haven House Florals fosters community connection through floral arrangements and gifts that spread kindness; Revival Spa reimagines wellness spaces with an emphasis on accessibility and holistic care; and T.Lo Noticias e Informacion provides vital resources to Latino families across the U.S., breaking language barriers and opening doors to opportunity.

For many of these entrepreneurs, the competition represents more than just financial support—it’s a stepping stone toward making a lasting impact. Nicole Dillon, founder of Breemar Flower Farm, sees it as a way to shift how people think about flowers. “80% of flowers are imported, which means that during major holidays like Valentine’s Day, local options are scarce,” she explains. “With funding, I can build a walk-in cooler and a hydroponic growing space, ensuring fresh, locally grown flowers are available nearly year-round.”

For Lindsey of Revival Spa, the opportunity is about more than business—it’s about reshaping how people approach self-care. “I want to create a space where everyone feels truly welcome, no matter their background or abilities,” she shares. “Winning this competition would allow me to expand services and make wellness more accessible for all.”

Beyond the funding and prestige, the Center Street Pitch Competition is a celebration of ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Whether they sink or swim, every finalist is taking a bold step forward—and the community is invited to witness it all unfold.

Join us at Ashland Theatre on April 10 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM to cheer on these rising stars, meet the judges, and see firsthand who will reel in the ultimate prize. One thing is certain—these entrepreneurs aren’t afraid to test the waters.

Amtrak is Your Ticket to Ride Ashland Train Day

Ashland Train Day is rolling into town on April 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM, and there’s no better way to arrive than by train! With up to 50 CSX and Amtrak trains passing through Ashland daily, our town is truly a rail-lover’s paradise. But on this special day, there’s one train experience that stands out above the rest—riding Amtrak Virginia straight into the heart of the celebration.

Skip the Parking Hassle—Ride in Style

The beauty of taking Amtrak to Ashland Train Day is that it drops you off right at the Ashland Train Station, also home to the Ashland Visitors Center. No need to search for parking or trek from a shuttle stop—with a quick step off the train, you’re instantly in the middle of the fun. Downtown Ashland transforms into a lively hub of train-themed entertainment, shopping, and dining, and there’s no better way to start the adventure than by rolling in on the rails.

Comfort, Convenience, and Virginia Favorites

Amtrak Virginia doesn’t just get you there; it makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. With spacious seating, plenty of storage for strollers and shopping bags, and a relaxing ride that lets you sit back and enjoy the view, it’s a stress-free way to travel. And for those looking to sip on something local, Amtrak’s café cars feature Virginia-made products, including Brewski from Center of the Universe Brewing Company. Supporting local businesses while cruising to Ashland Train Day? That’s a win-win!

Fun for the Whole Family

Traveling with little ones? Amtrak makes it easy with half-price tickets for children and engaging activities to keep them entertained. Unlike a long car ride where restlessness can take over, a train ride is an adventure in itself—watching the scenery pass by, walking through the cars, and enjoying the unique experience of train travel. It’s an exciting prelude to a day filled with locomotive-themed fun in downtown Ashland.

Can’t Take the Train? We’ve Got You Covered

For those who can’t enjoy the luxury of arriving by rail, there are still plenty of ways to get to the event. Free public parking areas with shuttle service will be available starting at 11 AM at the following locations:

  • Green Parking Area (East): Ashland-Junction Shopping Center, 167 Junction Drive

  • Purple Parking Area (East): Ashland Hanover Shopping Center, 251 N. Washington Hwy

  • Red Parking Area (West): First Baptist Church Ashland, 800 Thompson St

Shuttles and trolleys will run throughout the day, with the last pickup at 3:45 PM, ensuring everyone can get to and from the event with ease.

Enter to Win Your Next Train Adventure

If Ashland Train Day has you dreaming of your next rail journey, don’t miss the chance to win one of our two exciting train raffles!

Amtrak East Coast Getaway Raffle

Enter for a chance to win two Amtrak tickets to any destination along the East Coast! Whether you're dreaming of a scenic retreat, a city escape, or a coastal adventure, this raffle could be your ticket to ride. The winner also receives a $25 gift card to Center of the Universe Brewing Company, five Brewski hats, and bragging rights as the lucky traveler of the year. Raffle proceeds support Downtown Ashland Association’s non-profit mission, and the winner will be announced on April 25.

Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
$10.00

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.

🎟 Your golden ticket includes:
🚆 Two Amtrak tickets valid for any East Coast destination
🍻 $25 Center of the Universe Brewing Company Gift Card
🧢 5 Brewski Hats
📅 Redeemable for up to one year from the issue date
⚠️ Some blackout dates apply (mostly federal holidays)

Don’t miss your chance to embark on the journey of a lifetime—grab your raffle tickets now before this opportunity leaves the station! 🚉💨

Raffle proceeds benefit Downtown Ashland Association’s non-profit mission.

The winner will receive an email from Downtown Ashland Association on Friday, April 24.

Ashland Santa Train Raffle

Looking for a magical holiday experience? Win six tickets to the December 2025 Ashland Santa Train, sponsored by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys! This festive round-trip excursion to Colonial Williamsburg includes complimentary coffee and cocoa with Mrs. Claus, onboard entertainment with Santa and his elves, and a visit to Merchants Square for holiday shopping. The winner will be notified in October 2025.

Raffle - Ashland Santa Train
$10.00

Enter for a chance to win one of two 4-pack tickets to the 2026 Ashland Santa Train sponsored by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys!

Ashland Santa Train Tickets include:
☕️ Complimentary Coffee & Cocoa with Mrs Claus at Ashland Amtrak Train Station!
🚂 Round Trip Excursion to 'Colonial Williamsburg' aboard Reserved Amtrak Passenger Cars
🎅 Onboard Entertainment by SANTA, Elves, Christmas Carol, and the Polar Express Conductor!
📜 Visit Colonial Williamsburg - Enjoy a stroll through the Historic Area, Retail & Eateries!
🛍️ Visit Merchants Square - Holiday Shopping and Restaurants

Schedule
🚊 8:47 AM - Leaves Ashland Train Station
⏰ 10:36 AM - Arrives in Williamsburg
🕰️ 4:07 PM - Leaves Williamsburg
🚆 5:47 PM - Arrives at Ashland Train Station

Raffle proceeds benefit Downtown Ashland Association’s non-profit mission.
The winner will receive an email from Downtown Ashland Association on Monday, November 30, 2026. They will have their choice between 4 Tickets on December 13 or 4 Tickets on December 20.

Join Us for a Day of Train-Filled Fun!

No matter how you get here, Ashland Train Day promises a celebration filled with history, entertainment, and plenty of rail-themed excitement. But if you want the full experience—from the moment you leave home to the final whistle—Amtrak Virginia is the way to go. Climb aboard, sit back, and let the train take you straight into the heart of the action. See you at the station!

Ashland Train Day’s Kid Zone Rolls In!

Ashland Train Day Kid Zone photos by Joel Atanacio Serrano in 2023

Choo-choo! Get ready to steam into a world of fun as Ashland Train Day returns with an exciting, adventure-packed Kid Zone, made possible by the generous sponsorship of New Community Church! For the third year in a row, New Community Church is pulling into the station with an incredible lineup of family-friendly activities, ensuring that young conductors and their families make memories to last a lifetime.

Full Steam Ahead with Free Activities

Last year, over 4,000 children took part in the Kid Zone’s incredible offerings, and with a record-breaking 20,000 attendees at Ashland Train Day, the excitement continues to build! This year's Kid Zone is packed with interactive fun designed to keep kids and families smiling from ear to ear. Children can take a ride on a whimsical kiddie train, get creative with face painting, and enjoy classic yard games that bring out friendly competition. The Prize Spin Wheel will offer the chance to win exciting goodies, and three bounce houses ensure there's something for everyone - including two bounce houses. To help guests cool off, Kona Ice truck will serve up delicious frozen treats throughout the day. Family-friendly vendors will also be on hand with engaging activities and items to explore, rounding out an experience that's sure to be the highlight of the day.

Community on Track for Kindness

New Community Church’s mission is simple: to bring hope to their neighbors. Their support for Ashland Train Day reflects their commitment to enriching the community and ensuring that every child experiences joy.

“We believe the church should be in its community and for its community,” said Co-Lead Pastor Brandon Baldwin. “Ashland Train Day is an important day for our town, so our heart is to show our support and do our part to make it a great experience.”

Hop on Board!

Ashland Train Day is the perfect opportunity to bring the family together for a day of laughter, adventure, and memories. Whether soaring through the obstacle course, riding the kiddie train, or spinning the prize wheel, every child will find something to enjoy at the Kid Zone. Thanks to New Community Church, the Kid Zone is a can’t-miss experience that keeps Ashland Train Day chugging along as a favorite annual tradition.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 29, and come see why the Kid Zone is the express route to fun!