Downtown Ashland Encourages Giving Through Local Food Drives

As we enter the season of giving, the warmth of community shines brighter than ever in Downtown Ashland. This year, the Center of the Universe hopes to pull everyone into their spirit of gratitude and giving that lasts all year long.

Downtown Ashland entrepreneurs are making it easy for residents and visitors to lend a helping hand. Non-perishable food donation boxes are now available at Miss Timmie’s (117 Hanover Ave.), Take Away (107A Hanover Ave.), Chirp (403 S. Center St.), Center of the Yarniverse (112 England St), and Root Modern Dentistry (250 N. Washington Hwy., Suite A). Each location features a bright “Food Donations” sign designed by AnnMarie & Company to help donors easily spot where to give.

In addition, donations can be dropped off anytime at the free food pantries outside Local Christian Church and Café 54 Brunch and Lunch in the heart of historic Downtown Ashland. For our Hanover neighbors, a full list of County food pantry services can be found at HanoverCounty.gov/1237/Hanover-County-Food-Pantries.

This collective generosity aligns with the Town of Ashland’s new initiative, Kindness That Counts, launched in partnership with the Ashland Foundation. The program promotes awareness of homelessness and directs donations to trusted local nonprofits through the Greater Richmond Continuum of Care (GrCoC). The Town’s $10,000 initial contribution is helping ensure that outreach, case management, and essential support services reach individuals in need throughout Ashland. Supporters can make donations directly at https://givebutter.com/kindnessthatcounts

Together, these efforts remind us that compassion takes many forms—from a can of soup dropped in a local box to a dollar donated to a community fund. Each act of kindness adds up to something greater.

Curated Holiday Market Experience in Ashland

This holiday season, Downtown Ashland Association and Thrill of the Hunt are collaborating to deliver a spectacular local shopping experience that brings together artisans, vintage lovers, and community spirit in the heart of the Center of the Universe.

As prices climb and holiday wish lists grow, Downtown Ashland Association reminds shoppers that the best way to deck the halls is to shop local. Thanks to the support of community partners like Thrill of the Hunt, this year’s England Street Christmas Market is shaping up to be a highlight of the holiday season — and a spotlight on small-town creativity and craftsmanship.

On Saturday, December 6, visitors can hop aboard Amtrak Virginia for a cozy, car-free journey straight into Downtown Ashland. Just steps from the train station, over 10K festive lights stretch across over two miles of historic charm, and walkable shopping. Start the day with a farm-to-fork brunch, then stroll past Secretariat Racing Into History, America’s Longest Railroad Mural, and a collection of locally owned shops offering everything from art to antiques.

The day’s main event unfolds at Thrill of the Hunt (315 England Street), where the England Street Christmas Market — formerly known as the Ashland Christmas Market — will spill into the Thrill of the Hunt courtyard, parking lot, and the Ashland Town Center parking lot starting at 11 AM. This beloved seasonal market, launched in 2020, features hand-selected vendors offering vintage treasures, handmade goods, and original art. Every vendor has been thoughtfully curated to ensure variety and quality — no competition, just creativity.

This year’s vendor spaces sold out back in August, a testament to the excitement surrounding this community celebration. Shoppers can also enjoy delicious eats from The Local Cup, Mama Vicky’s, and Bikini Panini, all while browsing gifts that are one-of-a-kind and made right here in Virginia.

“We’re thrilled— pun intended — to partner with Thrill of the Hunt to create one central shopping destination for a day in the Center of the Universe this holiday season,” said Downtown Ashland Association Executive Director “Coach” Antonio Miller. “Our hope is that this market serves as a launchpad for visitors to explore even more walkable shopping opportunities throughout downtown.”

After perusing the market, visitors are encouraged to continue their shopping crawl through Ashland Town Center at favorites like Hickory Creek Antiques, one of the region’s largest antique malls with over 40 vendors. Cap off the day with dinner and drinks downtown, then hop back on Amtrak Virginia — perhaps with a Center of the Universe Brewing Company Brewski in hand — to toast a day well spent.

This holiday partnership between Downtown Ashland Association and Thrill of the Hunt highlights the power of collaboration in sustaining small businesses and enriching the community. Together, they’re proving that the spirit of the season shines brightest right here in Ashland.

Learn more about this and all of Downtown Ashland’s lit holiday events at LightUptheTracks.com.

“Off the Rails” Craft Beer & Wine Festival Returns with Brews, Boos & BBQ

Off the Rails Craft Beer and Wine Festival in at historic Hanover Arts and Activities Center

Ashland’s most spirited fall tradition is back—and bigger than ever. The Hanover Arts & Activities Center (The Center), in partnership with the Downtown Ashland Association (DAA), will host the annual “Off the Rails” Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Brews, Boos, and BBQ on Saturday, October 25 from 3–7 p.m. This beloved community fundraiser combines craft beer, wine, barbecue, live music, and small-town charm, all in support of arts and community programming in the Center of the Universe. 

The partnership with DAA expands the festival’s footprint beyond The Center’s front lawn at 500 South Center Street. Visitors will enjoy food trucks, craft and business vendors, lawn games, and live music from Buckville Hootenanny. Families can join in a costume contest for all ages, and Ashland residents with heavy trick-or-treat traffic can come and get a free bag of candy from Downtown Ashland Association’s booth.

Festival Highlights include:

  • 🎃 $15 entry (advance tickets online); free admission for under 21

  • 🍺 Craft beer pours: $7 full / $4 half

  • 🍷 Wine Tent with James River Cellars: $8 pours / $25 bottles

  • 🍖 Local barbecue from Bourne Rogue + food trucks

  • 🎶 Live music by Buckville Hootenanny

  • 🏆 Costume contests + lawn games for all ages

  • 🛍️ Vendor market hosted by Downtown Ashland Association

To make the day even more accessible, Amtrak Virginia serves as the ultimate designated driver. Passengers can order a Center of the Universe Brewski on board, then step off the train in downtown Ashland—just steps from The Center. Amtrak will host a booth with giveaways and a chance to win free tickets. After the festival ends, the celebration continues with a downtown “after crawl,” featuring Caboose Market and Café, Origin Beer Company, Ash & Olive with Cask and Stave specials, the Iron Horse Restaurant, and the Henry Clay Inn.

“We are thrilled to once again bring neighbors and visitors together for ‘Off the Rails,’” said Brenda Clarke, president of The Center. “This partnership with the Downtown Ashland Association makes it even more impactful. Not only is it a celebration of community, creativity, and connection—it’s a vital fundraiser that helps sustain the arts and cultural programming the Center provides year-round.”

Event Details:
 What: Off the Rails Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Brews, Boos, and BBQ
When: Saturday, October 25, 2025 | 3–7 p.m.
Where: Hanover Arts & Activities Center, 500 South Center Street, Ashland, VA 23005
Price: $15 advance entry (online tickets) | Free for under 21
More Info: https://www.hanoverarts.net/events/off-the-rails-2025

Stars Hollow Has a Twin in the Heart of Virginia

Take a stroll down Thompson Street or hop off the Amtrak, and you might do a double-take. Neighbors and travelers alike are whispering the same thing: downtown Ashland feels just like Stars Hollow. From quirky shops to beloved eateries, this charming town exudes the warmth, humor, and community spirit that made Gilmore Girls’ fictional town so unforgettable.

Henry Clay Inn (114 N Railroad Ave)

Begin your Ashland adventure at the Henry Clay Inn (114 N Railroad Ave), where luxurious accommodations and friendly smiles make guests feel right at home. You might hear a playful request floating through the halls: “I’d like a cookie and a raise.” Much like Lorelai managing the Dragonfly Inn, the Henry Clay is a place where dreams meet hospitality—and every stay feels like a story unfolding.

Just a block away, Ash and Olive embrace the town’s sweet and savory side. With a menu built for comfort and delight, it’s easy to imagine a resident declaring, “It’s one of my four major food groups. Candy, popcorn, and pizza.” In Ashland, as in Stars Hollow, food isn’t just sustenance—it’s a reason to gather, laugh, and celebrate the small joys.

For those inspired to twirl, leap, or take a spontaneous jazz break, Ashland Dance Academy (110 Thompson St) is the town’s Miss Patty’s School of Ballet. Offering yoga, ballet, tap, and jazz, it’s where Ashland’s brightest stars shine, proving that “it’s moments like this that make life worth living,” just as the Gilmore Girls themselves would agree.

Ashland Meat Co (107 S Railroad Ave, Ashland, VA 23005)

Over at Ashland Meat Co, every plate is a declaration of dedication. Guests might echo the sentiment, “It’s not too much food. This is what we’ve been training for our whole lives. This is our destiny, this is our finest hour.” It’s a reminder that, whether you’re enjoying a perfectly grilled steak or a casual dinner with neighbors, Ashland honors the art of savoring life’s best moments.

Sweet tooth enthusiasts and pastry admirers will find their heaven at Bravo Bake Company (278 N Washington Hwy), where the rule is simple: “If eating cake is wrong, I don’t want to be right.” From buttery croissants to decadent cakes, every bite is a little indulgence reminiscent of a Stars Hollow afternoon filled with conversation, laughter, and perhaps a dash of mischief.

Book lovers, rejoice—Ashland Library (201 S Railroad Ave) offers the perfect Lorelai-and-Rory moment: “I live in two words. One is a world of books.” Step inside, and each shelf feels like its own paragraph in the story of Ashland, a place where imagination, knowledge, and community meet. Like the Stars Hollow library, it’s a quiet haven, full of discovery, inspiration, and endless charm.

Classic Coffee, Tea, and Books (112 Thompson St)

For a taste of the town’s musical and seasonal spirit, the Ashland Town Hall Pavilion (121 Thompson St) provides rocking chairs, live music, and porch displays that could rival any Stars Hollow gazebo. Local sponsor Foliage LLC by Richard Harding transforms this space into an autumnal wonderland, perfect for spontaneous sing-alongs or a heartfelt “You’re the best” moment with a friend.

Foodies will be delighted at Caboose Market and Cafe (108 S Railroad Ave), where farm-to-table fare could easily make a diner jealous. Move over, Luke; the sandwiches are only the beginning. And just around the corner, Classic Coffee, Tea, and Books (112 Thompson St) invites visitors to linger with a steaming cup and a good read—a cozy nook perfect for an “I just want coffee” moment, reminiscent of Stars Hollow Books’ charm.

Venture to Hickory Creek Antiques (427 England St), a treasure trove of over 40 vendors, and you might find yourself declaring, “I’ll take that!” From antiques to local art, it’s a place that captures the delightful unpredictability of Stars Hollow’s town shops. And for Italian cuisine lovers, IL Forno Bar & Grill (435 England St) offers flavors so authentic you might hear Lorelai sigh, “I’m not a pastry chef,” in admiration of the homemade pasta and sauces. Finally, at Sugar Fix Bakery (105 B England St), cookies are the main attraction, and one taste may leave you in a playful, “I’m in a cookie coma” bliss.

From morning coffee to evening strolls, Ashland proves that small-town charm never goes out of style. As neighbor and Downtown Ashland Association Executive Director “Coach” Antonio Miller says, “You haven’t really lived until you’ve been Gilmored in Ashland!” Whether you’re discovering hidden gems, sharing a laugh with neighbors, or simply soaking in the quaint streetscape, Ashland is a town where every visit writes its own story—one filled with warmth, whimsy, and that unmistakable Stars Hollow spirit.

For more information about visiting downtown Ashland, Virginia, go to https://www.ashlandvirginia.com/

Happy Hour Vibes Serves Up Laughter, Mocktails, and Local Flavor Across Central Virginia

The latest episode of Happy Hour Vibes on K101.2 POP Richmond poured out laughter, networking, and a healthy dose of community pride during its October Recording and Networking Party—featuring some of Central Virginia’s most creative entrepreneurs and small business leaders.

Over Shaken Not Spurred’s mocktail of the month—the Minted Mare—guests were challenged to dive into six red solo cups, each filled with a classic party game and a twist of local flair. Whether tossing pong balls, crafting elevator pitch rhymes, or confessing marketing mix-ups, attendees couldn’t help but laugh, sip, and connect.

Listeners are invited to sip along and laugh along every Thirsty Thursday at 6 PM on K101.2 POP Richmond, learning how to make the featured mocktail of the month and a meal to match from Gianna Does It All’s very own Chef Gianna Stanley.

“Happy Hour Vibes is where business, creativity, and laughter meet,” said Barry Farmer, co-host and representative of the Farmer Media Company, a proud in-kind gold sponsor of the show. “It’s a place for neighbors to network, celebrate local events, and cheer on what makes Central Virginia so vibrant.”

🍹 Local Flavor Takes the Mic

This month’s guests brought the flavor, creativity, and community spirit in a way only Central Virginia can. Homemades by Suzanne set the tone as both guest and food sponsor, serving up their signature pimento cheese spread and dessert selections that had everyone swooning—especially producer Barry Farmer, who happily claimed a lemon tart or two off-mic. The team gave listeners a mouthwatering preview of their upcoming Thanksgiving menu, a full holiday feast made with love and the comfort of a home-cooked meal—just like the downtown Ashland favorite has always been known for. Their holiday tea parties in the John Marshall Ballroom and right in the Center of the Universe promise to be a highlight of the season, and their “Very Important Pup” seating—with pup plates, toys, and proceeds benefiting the Hanover Humane Society—makes it clear that Homemades by Suzanne knows how to serve up heart with every bite.

Things got spicy when RVA Wing Wars joined the table to talk about their annual showdown on October 18 at Triple Crossing Beer in Fulton, where twenty restaurants will compete to prove who truly has the best wings in the region. Of course, the Downtown Ashland Association is cheering for hometown heroes Ashland Sports Page, whose wings have a loyal following of their own. In true Happy Hour Vibes fashion, the Wing Wars crew found themselves caught up in the fun when they landed in the “Never Have YOU Ever” cup—forced to admit they’ve also accidentally posted a “See y’all tomorrow!” when the event was actually the following week. The room erupted in laughter and raised their glasses, because, really, who hasn’t been there?

Jason McClenny of McClenny Insurance Agency got his moment in the spotlight when his pong ball landed in the “Serve” cup, challenging him to come up with a two-line rhyming elevator pitch. A poet without realizing it, Jason delivered a clever couplet that stuck in everyone’s head for the rest of the night—proving that even insurance can be lyrical with a little creative spark.

Then came Sarah Glasco of ADHD Peri Punks, who brought a mix of humor and honesty as she discussed how ADHD uniquely affects women in perimenopause and menopause. With her signature sarcastic self-care style and a podcast voice made for the mic, Sarah drew the room in while keeping everyone laughing. Listeners can tune into her show, ADHD Peri Punks, on Spotify or find her and her co-creators sharing relatable content on Instagram at @adhdperipunks.

To top it all off, Minuteman Press of Ashland reminded everyone that “mail marketing is not dead.” They’re currently running their Mailathon ahead of the holiday season—offering $20 off any size mailing and free design services—helping small businesses share their message far and wide. Learn more at minuteman.com/us/locations/va/ashland.

Each guest brought something special to the table—flavor, fun, creativity, or connection—and together, they reminded listeners why Happy Hour Vibes isn’t just a show. It’s a celebration of the people, businesses, and stories that make Central Virginia such a vibrant place to live, work, and play.

Downtown Ashland Association on Happy Hour Vibes

Lou Keeton and Coach Antonio Miller of Downtown Ashland Association joined the episode to highlight the town’s 31 Days of Ashland Halloween celebration and the upcoming Off the Rails Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Boos, Brews, and BBQ, sponsored by Amtrak Virginia, on Saturday, October 25 at the Hanover Arts and Activities Center.

Festival-goers can sip craft beer from Center of the Universe Brewing aboard Amtrak Virginia, then crawl toward craft beer, wine, food, arts, and business vendors all while enjoying live music from Buckville Hootenanny. Thy can even snag free candy for Ashland’s trick-or-treat heavy neighborhoods. Afterward, the party continues with a downtown “After Crawl” featuring Ashland’s favorite spots—Caboose Market & Café, Origin Beer Company, Ash & Olive, Cask and Stave, Iron Horse Restaurant, and The Henry Clay Inn.

Listeners are also encouraged to submit recipes to the Ashland Community Cookbook or name the Ashland Candy Bar by November 1. The Ashland Community Cookbook will be available for purchase in time for Light Up the Tracks: The Grand Illumination on November 22. The winning Ashland Chocolate Bar name will be wrapped up with golden ticket prizes redeemable at the Center of the Universe by New Year’s Eve.

🌟 Foster the Mic: Broadcasting Change

Foster the Mic will reach 1.3 million listeners across Central Virginia through The Barry Farmer Morning Show with Sharon Lizzy, blending storytelling with sponsorship opportunities that make an impact. Sponsorship levels range from $150 to $2,550, each offering on-air exposure, social media promotion, and magazine placement—all while supporting nonprofits that serve foster youth.

“Foster care is more than a system—it’s a community,” said Farmer. “By sponsoring Foster the Mic, your business amplifies real stories while aligning with a powerful cause.”

Sponsorship inquiries: connect@farmercompanyllc.com | 804-243-0731

🎧 Don’t Miss the Final Recording Party of 2025!

The final Happy Hour Vibes Networking and Recording Party of 2025 takes place Monday, October 27 at 6 PM at Farmer Company Media Studios in Richmond.

Join the fun in person—or tune in from home every Thirsty Thursday at 6 PM on K101.2 POP Richmond to sip along, laugh along, and connect with the region’s most entertaining network of entrepreneurs, event planners, and creatives.

Happy Hour Vibes is co-produced by Farmer Media Company, K101.2 POP Richmond, and Downtown Ashland Association, with in-kind Downtown Ashland Association Gold Sponsors Barry Farmer Media, Shaken Not Spurred Mobile Bar, Gianna Does It All, and POWER UP Productions.