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!

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!

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 on Robinson 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.

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

ENTER

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.